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JOSEPH TYRONE DERRY. 



THE STRIFE OF BROTHERS 



A POEM 



BY 



JOSEPH TYRONE DERRY 



ATI^ANTA, GA. 

The Franklin Printing and Publishing Co, 

Geo. W. Harrison, Manager. 

1904. 






LIBRARY of CONGRESS 
Two Copies fiecelveo 

DEC 21 iyU4 

CopvriiiHi tntry 

CUSS ^ XXg Noj 
J f S ^9 

COPY e. 



Copyright 1904 

BY 

JOSEPH T. DERRY. 






DEDICATION. 



To lady fair zcJw gave the promise szveet, 
That did -c^dfli true fulfilrnent later meet, 
Prom once young soldier zvho -with fondest pride 
Received 'mid zvars alarms, his lovely bride. 
God's gift in youthful bloom and ripening age, 
In his life's story she adorns each page. 
The music of her voice through all these years 
Hath brmight him joy and banished gloomy fears; 
Her eyes love-lighted have made bright his zvay, 
Oft turning adverse night to gladsome day; 
Her heart hath ever loyal proved and true 
Giving him faith to dare and strength to do. 



PREFACE. 

In this poem I have endeavored to celebrate "the 
pure motive, the patriotic spirit and the lofty princi- 
ples of the- Confederate armies and Southern peo- 
ple." '■' My hero is the Confederate soldier of every 
rank : my heroine, the Southern v^oman. Yet I have 
tried to do justice to the patriotism and valor of the 
"boys in blue," and have no harsh words for any ex- 
cept the tyrants of the "reconstruction era," and for 
even these I plead forgiveness. 

Born in Milledgeville, Ga., December 13, 1841, I 
grew up loving the Union and desiring its preserva- 
tion, and this was the sentiment of the vast majority 
of all the people of the South. But in common with 
this vast majority I believed that my lirst allegiance 
was due to my State, and was convinced by the occur- 
rences of the first months of 1861 that the very exist- 
ence of Southern liberty and civilization demanded 
separation. Hence I freely enlisted in Confederate 
service, and for four years endeavored to do my duty 
faithfully as a soldier of the Confederate States. 

Over the memories of that stormy period love sheds 
for me a sweet halo ; for on the fifth day of August, 
1862, with the hearty approval of the parents of each 

* Quoted from my highly esteemed and much loved friend, 
the gallant Confederate soldier and Christian minister, 
Clement A. Evans, who at Appomattox, after the close of 
hostilities on other parts of the line, and while Gordon and 
Sheridan were quietly conversing, being on the extreme 
Confederate left and ignorant of what had occurred else- 
w^here, led a charge which shed a parting glory on the Army 
of Northern Virginia. 

(7) 



8 Preface. 

of the contracting parties, notwithstanding our youth^ 
I was married to Miss EHzabeth Osborne^ of Augusta, 
Ga., which city at that time was the home of us both. 
The marriage occurred at eleven o'clock in the morn- 
ing, and at four o'clock that afternoon I was speeding 
to rejoin my command, then serving in East Tennes- 
see. A little bit of our story I have woven into my 
poem. 

Hoping that this effort of mine may please at least 
the noble men and women now rapidly moving to- 
ward the portals of the life to come, I submit this: 
story in verse to the favor of the American people. 

Joseph Tyrone Derry. 

Note.— For short sketches of Confederate Generals men- 
tioned in this poem see the Appendix to " Derry 's Story of 
the Confederate States," published by B. F. Johnson Pub- 
lishing Co., of Richmond, Va. 



THE STRIFE OF BROTHERS. 



BOOK I. 



The Gathering; of the Hosts, 

When from the chaos of tremendous strife 

There bursty with promise of a glorious hfe, 

O'er clearing skies the joy-inspiring light 

Of Freedom's constellation fair and bright, 

Bringing glad hope to nations near and far, 5 

'Twas love, not force, that ruled each shining star, 

A'Vhich in its orbit rolling onward moved. 

But force centrifugal too mighty proved. 

When dire Distrust and Hate usurped the throne 

Where Love in better days had reigned alone; 10 

And, when on States coercion first was tried, 

The Union of the fathers groaned and died. 

And naught but Love can bid her rise again 

With that same holy light on hill and plain 

Which shone in those blest, happy days of old, 15 

Of which our bards in accents sweet have told. 

Tell me, O Muse, in what disastrous hour 

Was Love, so mighty once, stripped of his power? 

'Twas when one section of fair Freedom's land 

Had seized the reins with strong uplifted hand, 20 

With firm resolve to rule by law of might, 

Regardless of what others deemed their right. 

Then compromise was rudely set aside. 

Nor by the law of peace would men abide. 

Impelled by threat'ning evils yet to come 25 

Sev'n States withdrew and sought another home,'^ 

In a new union, modeled after that 

* Seven States seceded in the following order: South 
Carolina, December 3, 1860; Mississippi, January 9, 1861; 
Florida, January 10, 1861; Alabama, January 11, 1861; 
Georgia. January 19, 1861 ; Louisiana, January 26, 1861 ; 
Texas, February 1, 1861. 

(9) 



lo The Strife of Brothers. 

Which once in Southern hearts as lov'd queen sat; 

And a new flag, so very hke the old 

Whose glories our proud tongues had often told, 30 

W'as raised aloft, with seven shining stars 

In field of blue, with alternating bars 

Which heralded with hues of red and white 

That purity and valor still unite. 

Was't causeless fear that prompted what they did? 35 

An answer true can from no man be hid, 

Who in his memV}^ still retains the wrong, 

Untold till then in story or in song*. 

Of reconstruction, whose foul, hateful blot 

Hath on its authors left a dismal spot 40 

Of treason black to their own blood and kin : 

Rarely hath hist'ry shown a darker sin. 

Yet pardon e'en for this great wrong we bid, 

On this sole plea : "they knew not what they did." 

The States seceding wished to go in peace, 45 

Hoping from constant strife to find release. 

But 'twas resolved to force their sovereign will 

And fast within the Union hold them still. 

A hostile fleet its sails for Charleston set 

And guns of Beauregard the challenge met. 50 

Then 'gainst coercion four more States arose * 

And for State rights with ardor promptly chose. 

Then from Potomac to the Rio Grand'. 

From ev'ry quarter of the Southern land 

Gathered the heroes of as valiant hosts 55 

As hoary Time in all his annals boasts. 

''Thus ever unto t3^rants!" was the cry 

That bade Virginia's gallant banners fly ; 

Her ''golden horseshoe knights" in proud array 

And footmen brave Avere ready for the fray. 60 

The old North State called forth her sturdy sons 

Asking' a place near flashing of the guns, 

Preferring ev'rywhere "to be than seem" 

And b}^ their valor winning great esteem. - 

High lifts her crest the Old Palmetto State 65 

With heart to bravely dare the shafts of fate. 

Whose sons "with spirits and resources stand 

Prepared" to fight for home and native land. 

'■' These four States seceded in the following order: Vir- 
ginia, April 17. 1861 ; Arkansas, May 6, 1861 ; ^'orth Carolina, 
May 20, 1861 ; Tennessee, June 8, 1861. 



The Strife of Brothers. ii 

For constitution on strong pillars laid, 

Of ''wisdom, justice, moderation" made, 70 

Great Georgia draws her sword without a stain, 

While heroes throng from mountain and from plain. 

Brave Alabama, land so fair and blest. 

Where weary exiles once said, ''here we rest," 

Summoned to arms her bravest of the brave, 75 

Ready to die their mother State to save. 

And Mississippi's eagle proud and fierce, 

With cries that through her utmost limits pierce, 

Aroused the scions of a warlike race. 

Dauntless each peril in her cause to face. 80 

Fair Louisiana, on whose shield are found 

Union with confidence and justice bound, 

Stepped forth so grandly to the very front. 

With heart to bear the fiercest battle's brunt. 

The Lone Star State throughout her broad 

domain ^^ 

Summoned her gallant knights to war again, 
Once more to battle for their noble land. 
As Avhen they drove in flight the Mexic band. 
''The peoples rule" in all the States, proclaim 
The men of Arkansas in Freedom's name. 90 

This to make good they form in strong phalanx, 
With breasts of steel and firmly welded ranks. 
And quickly gather now from Tennessee 
Her hardy volunteers so bold and free, 
"'Commerce and Agriculture" lay aside 95 

And ready stand to breast the battle-tid-". 
From balmy Florida came heroes true 
In spirits gallant, though in numbers few, 
Wliose coat of arms proclaimed "in God we trust" ; 
Fit W'Ords for those who thought their cause was 

just. 100 

O'er all these gathered hosts there waved the bars, 
With field of blue, where shone eleven stars. '^ 
And from the stronger section myriads came 
To fight for Union, while they loud proclaim 

*A part of the people in two other States, Kentucky and 
Missouri, tried to unite their commonwealths with the Con- 
federate States. Each of these two States was represented 
in the Army and in the Congress of each of the republics 
into which the Union w^as for four years divided. 



12 The Strife of Brothers. 

''One formed from many," which the South de- 
clared - 105 
To be the faith, for which her heroes dared. 
AVhat pity 'tis that men to force appeal 
And 'gainst the law of love their bosoms steel ! 
When this blest law shall govern States and men 
Then Christy on earth to reign, will come again, no 
"When two in solemn compact have combined, 
If one, in after days, should claim to find 
Impossible, on conscientious ground, 
To keep the rule by which they both are bound, 
The other should be left to go in peace 115, 
And from the compact each should have release." 
Thus said the South and claimed that she was right 
And, though preferring peace, prepared for fight. 
''Secession Anarchy" the North declared 
And for the war o'erwhelming hosts prepared. 120 
Yet law in each seceding State prevailed 
And for the claims of justice courts availed; 
The wheels of government moved as of yore, 
And order reigned as it had done before. 
For each republic valiant heroes stood, 125 
Ready to do whatever brave men could ; 
Our army wore the grey, its foe the blue, 
And each could boast its loyal hearts and true. 
But when one fights for home and native land. 
This trebly steels his heart and nerves his hand, 13O' 
Giving him power to hold great odds at bay 
And 'gainst most desp'rate efforts win the day. 
W^hile he who fights for country, but is sure 
That his own home is from war's ills secure. 
Tacks half the motive that inspires his foe, 135 
Causing the fires of patriot zeal to glow. 
Each Southron's heart with strong emotions 

burned, 
As to his loved ones his fond thoughts he turned. 
Oii wond'ring if, while he was far aw^ay. 
They could with safety in the old home stay. 14a 

How oft before him came the parting scene, 
When those whose hearts so true had always been 
Around him came to speak the sad good-bye. 
While tear-drops glistened in each loving eye. 
In many homes, before farewell was said. 145 

Some lesson breathing faith in God was read 



The Strife of Brothers. 13 

Prom that blest Book, so precious to each heart, 
When hour has come for loving ones to part. 
And^ as the father plead in earnest prayer, 
That God would bless each dear one kneeling 

there 150 

And safely bring again their soldier boy^, 
Without whose presence there was little joy, 
Each throbbing heart responded with amen ! 
And mother, brothers, sisters once again 
Gave the fond kiss, as though it were the last. 155 

Then, as the soldier o'er the threshold passed, 
The father, in whose eye there stood a tear, 
With quiv'ring lip spoke firmly words of cheer, 
Bidding his son be ever true and brave 
And act a hero's part his land to save. 160 

One youth there was whose mem'ry lingers yet 
Around another home. He'll ne'er forget 
That place so dear to him, made fair and bright, 
Yea ! sacred even, by the holy light 
Of the soft eyes, that answered his in love 165 

So pure and true, so like to that above. 
E'en while in childhood's happy hours they played 
Love's golden chain of strongest links was made, 
Destined to bind them ever heart to heart 
A'Vith tie, that death alone can ever part. 170 

How sad the hour that takes him from her side 
AVith portents dire of ills that may betide. 
Facing the maiden and her mother there, 
Both of them lovely in their beauty rare. 
Clasping a hand of each he spoke the name 175 

That always thrilled his heart and, ''May I claim 
My sweet reward, when safely I return.^" 
He softly said. Ah ! what emotions burn 
In his glad heart, when maiden's promise sweet 
AVith mother's prompt and free consent doth 

meet. 180 

Good-bye was spoken ; then he went away. 
Though sad at leaving, looking for the day 
When peace should smile and he return again 
To claim his promised bride. How happy then 
Would be their lot, when they with joy should 

come 185 

With loving hearts into their own sweet home. 
Ah ! Who that felt them ever can forget 



14 The Strife of Brothers. 

Emotions ling'ring in our mem'ry yet? 

When patriot fathers, brothers^ husbands^ sons 

And lovers spoke to their beloved ones 190 

The parting words^ with sorrow in each heart, 

Howe'er prepared to act the hero's parr. 

The rich, the poor^ the lofty and the low. 

With spirits ready anywhere to go. 

And ev'ry thing to dare their land to save 195 

From fate they deemed far darker than the grave, 

The youth^ the man matured, the hoary head, 

Heroic men by noble heroes led, 

Sped to defend the Old Dominion State, 

Who for her sisters dared the worst that hate 200 

Could do to her, who bravely bared her breast 

To the wild storm-wave's fiercely tow'ring crest. 

From ev'ry city, town and rustic home 

With patriot zeal the thronging heroes come ; 

And, as they move to board the waiting train, 205 

The crowds raise cheers that ring and ring again, 

While rattling drums and stirring bugle-blast 

Mingle with cannon's roar, whose echoes last. 

Reverberating long through plain or hills. 

Awaking ardor that each bosom thrills. 210 

Then, while the train was passing out of sight, 

Fond farewells waved the signal flags of white 

In the fair hands of those, whose smiles and tears 

Bespoke their love and pride, their mingled fears 

Lest this should be the last, the last time e'er 215 

The forms now vanishing their eyes should cheer. 

What could 'mid dreary vears of cruel strife 

And those still darker, with oppression rife, 

Like thought of mother, sister, sweetheart, wife 

Or daughter give to fainting hearts new life? 220 

Dear women of the South ! As noble they 

As any since creation's earliest day ! 

Their lofty courage joined with tender love 

Enabled them all ills to rise above ; 

To write brave words of hope to those away, 225 

And bid them forward look to brighter day, 

Hiding the anxious care and sorrow deep 

Which through long dreary nights oft banished 

sleep ; 
Without complaint enduring hardships sore, 
Faithful and true and loving evermore. 230 



The Strife of Brothers. 15 

And^ when the dire^ disastrous end had comC;, 
They welcomed back the sad survivors home. 
With words of hope aroused the downcast soul, 
While with love's smile they made the heartsick 

whole. 
Imparting faith the conflict to begin, 235 

Which o'er disasters triumphs grand should win. 
With scanty means each noble work they led 
Gathered from many battlefields the dead^ 
With headstones marked their final resting-place 
And reared proud monuments our land to grace. 240 
Ah ! how can we find words their praise to sing ? 
To them the tribute of our hearts we bring 
And with love's chaplet proudly crown them 

queens. 
For our dear homes with all their charming scenes^ 
Where dwelt such noble souls, who would not 

fight ^ _^ 245 

And feel, that in so doing he was right? 
Our Southern soldiers most sincerely thought 
The triumph of the cause for which they fought 
Alone could save the South from dreadful fate, 
Which, if they failed^ would either soon or late 250 
Bring dire disaster on each Southern State. 
This dread accounts for many steps they took 
And for their firm resolve not once to brook 
E'en the least meddling of the Fed'ral laws 
In matters^, which for their own safety's cause. 255 
Should be, they claimed, entirely left alone^ 
With interference on the part of none. 
Upon Virginia first the tempest broke : 
But, well prepared to parry ev'ry stroke, 
Her valiant sons at each strategic point, 260 

With ardent wish to strengthen ev'ry joint 
In their proud mother's armor, bravely stood 
To guard each pass through mountain, plain or 

wood, 
Posted with care by chieftain wise and grand 
As ever nobly stood for native land 265 

Or drew a sword in battle for the free, 
Virginia's peerless son, our Robert Tee. 
Nor, keeping vigil, had they long to wait 
Until the flower of ev'ry Southern State 
Under their chosen chiefs had gathered there 270 



1 6 J^he Strife of Brothers. 

With hearts aflame some gallant deed to dare. 

The first success was at Big Bethel won 

By D. H. Hill, the Old North State's brave son 

And the first Southron who in battle died^ 

Was Henry Wyatt, Edgecombe County's pride. 275 

Rich Mountain, Laurel Hill and Carrick's Ford, 

Defeats which to o'erwhelming odds were owed, 

Were compensated yet by many a deed 

Of men who proved, that in the time of need 

Their country could upon her sons rely 280. 

To 'fend her cause or for her sake to die. 

Of the long line of Southern leaders great 

Who in the battle's forefront met their late, 

Thrilling by stirring deeds each valiant man. 

Brave Robert Selden Garnett led the van. 285 

And with their leader others gave their all, 

Yielding, like him, their lives at duty's call, 

Without his hope of long enduring fame, 

Yet sure that loving hearts would hold each name 

In fond remembrance and their story tell 290 

In records of the household treasured well. 

Long did the Georgia and Virginia boys 

Repeat the story that had e'en its joys. 

When in the circle of lov'd friends once more 

Soldiers were wont to fight their battles o'er, c.g"^ 

And tell of marches fraught with hardship sore. 

Those Georgians who, cut off from ev'ry friend, 

'Mid perils that appeared to have no end. 

Resolving not to yield, took their rough way 

Over the rugged mountains night and day, 300 

Ne'er tired of telling how a path they made 

Through the dense laurels, dark with gloomy 

shade. 
Nor how, when famine stared them in tlie face, 
A friendly mountaineer their path did trace. 
Supplied their needs and led them a safe way 305 
To join their comrades, camped at Monterey: 
And, wheresoe'er they gave this tale to fame. 
AVith gratitude they mentioned Parson's name. 
And "Little" Petersburg was ne'er forgot 
By those to whom fate gave the kinder lot 310 

To march that way and its good cheer to share, 
Provided by kind ladies gathered there. 
And now along Virginia's eastern side 



The Strife of Brothers. 17 

Invasion's onward fiercely surging tide 
-O'er the Potomac bore the proud array 315 

Of a great army, marching to the fray 
Proclaiming motive high and purpose grand, 
The union to restore and save the land. 
Restore by force a union of consent, 
Such as the fathers built and surely meant 320 

That ours should through the ages ever be, 
.A Union grand of sovereign States and free? 
A new one they might build on law of might, 
Where, utterly regardless of the right, 
Majorities could rule in their own way, 325 

As in the hated reconstruction day. 
Thousands of patriots marched in that great host, 
Who above all things prized the Union most, 
Ready, if they could keep the nation one, 
~To bear all else, whatever should be done. 330 

In numbers strong and boastful in their might. 
They doubted not that they would put to flight 
The foe, whom they in scorn as rebels styled, 
And e'en as traitors bitterly reviled. 
Ah ! could Americans so soon forget 335 

What should be fresh in ev'ry mind, e'en yet? 
How such harsh names in years long gone before 
Our fathers scorned ; in those brave days of yore. 
When they defied Old England's mighty power 
And bravely fought, until the glorious hour, 340 

When freedom dawned for us and all the world. 
And tyrants from our shores in flight were hurled. 
Forgot were all those lessons of the past 
Which with Americans should ever last. 
In gorgeous uniforms, a splendid sight, 345 

With bayonets glancing in the morning light. 
And silken banners floating to the breeze. 
Marched the brave host whose leader proudly sees 
In their firm ranks advancing buoyantly 
The hope assured of certain victory. 350 

Behind the army moved a pleasure train 
Whose ev'ry thought was frivolous and vain. 
Planning a merry fete upon the field, 
When vanquished rebels in defeat should yield 
And on to Richmond, by McDowell led, 355 

'The victors march o'er wounded and o'er dead. 
But heroes brave from each seceding State 



J 8 The Strife of Brothers. 

Stood to contest the fields upon whose fate, 

All felt, the hopes of their dear Southland hung. 

Ah! ne'er historian's pen or poet's tongue 36o» 

Hath told the deeds of nobler patriot band. 

Than those who fought that day for native land 

And made Manassas famed in ev'ry clime. 

In each true Southern heart throughout all time 

The story of their gallant fight shall live 365. 

And hope inspiring to each hero give 

Who stands, when haughty foe with ihreat'ning 

comes, 
Between war's desolation and lov'd homes. 
It was upon a glorious summer day, 
When o'er Bull Run McDowell led the way, 370* 

Hurling o'erwhelming odds of men and guns 
Against our left, where Louisiana's sons 
With South Carolina's under Evans* stood 
To stem the tide, as best those brave men could. 
Here, as the battle pressed upon them sore 375; 

And ever at each failure thousands more 
Of valiant foemen 'gainst their stout line surged 
Two strong brigades, by Bee and Bartow urged 
With dauntless spirits brought the needed aid. 
For full two hours a firm defense was made 3801' 

By Evans' men and Bartow's Georgians brave 
And Bee's true-hearted boys, who fought to save 
Th' endangered left, conferring honor great 
On Alabama and the Old North State 
And Mississippi, whence they gladly came 385; 

To brave each peril in fair Freedom's name. 
At length the whelming pressure was too strong 
And now, as if by billows borne along. 
They came in rout upon the broad plateau 
Of Robinson and Henry homes, where, lo ! 390'* 

Like lions bold there stoutly stood at bay. 
With hearts resolved on winning back the day, 
The Old Dominion's sons by Jackson led. 
To whom the gallant Bee dejected said: 
"They force us back!" But Jackson's prompt 

reply ^ 395^ 

Kindled again with hope that warrior's eye: 
"Give them the bayonet !" And at this word 

* Brigadier-General Nathan G» Evans of South Carolina.. 



The Strife of Brothers. 19 

With shout that was above the tumult heard 

The noble Carolinian to his men 

Rode back exhorting : "Rally once agam ! 400 

See Jackson like a stone wall firmly stand! 

Here_, my brave boys^ for our dear native land, 

Let us resolve to die^, and we shall win !" 

Just ere the foe was ready to begin 

A new assault, the gallant Beauregard 405 

And brave Joe Johnston, onward spurring hard, 

Came from the right where they had planned 

attack 
Upon McDowell's left. But summoned back 
By distant sound of strife, they reached the field 
And, anxious lest their men in rout should yield 410 
Before the oncoming tide of thronging foes, 
Gave orders promptly unto each of those 
Who carried colors, quick their flags to bear 
Full forty paces onward and stand there. 
Themselves with flag of Alabama's Fourth 415 

Borne by their side rode to the front, when forth, 
Like vet'rans tried, into the battle line 
Sprang the brave Southrons to the waving sign 
Which marked the place where they should take 

their stand 
And wage the fight once more for native land. 420 
The troops already named, Imboden's guns 
With Stannard's too, and vet'ran Pendleton's, 
Alburtis' also joined with Walton's five. 
Before whose fire a charge would hardly thrive, 
Stuart and Hampton, vowing not to yield, 425 

Stood to contest anew the hard-fought field. 
On came our foes exultant in their might 
And bravely led by vet'rans skilled in fight. 
The Southern left, now under Beauregard, 
Stood firm, although the foemen pressed them 

hard ; 430 

While Johnston hurried over to the right ■ 
To hasten reinforcements for the fight. 
Standing awhile at bay and sorely pressed. 
To try a change which might bring needed rest, 
Our leader thundered : "Charge upon the foe !" 435 
The line advanced and swept the whole plateau. 
Soon strongly reinforced they came again 
Retaking their lost guns. But now the men 



20 The Strife of Brothers. 

Of Fisher's North Carolina, fresh and strong. 

With Wither's brave Virginians haste along, 440 

And the whole Southern hne in headlong rush 

Adown the slope the vanquished foemen brush, 

Clearing the well-fought field and seizing guns 

Of Ricketts and of Griffin, well-earned prize. 

But gallant Bartow fell, and near him lies 445 

Th' impetuous Bee. As noble spirits they 

As e'er for country died on battle day. 

The story of their death, like bugle blast. 

With mighty impulse destined long to last, 

Borne swifty through the land on tongues of fire, 450 

Stirred in our gen'rous youth the strong desire 

To bravely conquer or, like them, to die. 

But, not yet ready from the field to fly. 

Another force upon th' opposing height 

In numbers strong and willing yet for fight, 455 

In crescent outline showing gallant front. 

With flanks advanced to bear new battle's brunt. 

By skirmishers preceded, start again 

To try one more assault. But lo ! just then 

Upon the field a new force swiftly came. 460 

But whence they marched or even what their 

name. 
Confederate or Fed'ral, none could tell ; 
For round the staff the drooping colors fell. 
Then Beauregard th' advancing column sees 
With anxious eye, until a sudden breeze 465 

Blew out the folds of the red Southern bars 
While, as in triumph, gleamed its shining stars. 
^'Hurrah ! The day is ours !" He glaHly cried ; 
With shouts and cheers his gallant boys replied. 
As Kirby Smith appeared with timely aid 470 

And Early's brave brigade more certain made 
The fortune of the day. With ringing cheer 
That smote the Fed'ral host with sudden fear 
The whole Confed'rate force in full advance 
Swept all before them, giving not a chance 475 

To halt and form, none keeping their array 
On that to Fed'ral arms disastrous day, 
Excepting only Sykes' and Sherman's men 
Who in good order crossed Bull Run again. 
Beyond that stream they all in panic fled, 480 

While on their track by gallant Stuart led 



The Strife of Brothers. 21 

The horsemen charged and Lindsay Walker's 

shells 
Increased their terror, while the tumult swells, 
As carriages and caissons blocked the way. 
And where were now those congressmen so gay 485 
And giddy citizens on pleasure bent? 
To the wild rout their terror impulse lent. 
None more swift-footed on that dreadful day 
To Washington sped on in blank dismay. 
Their boasts and sneers at rebels now were past ; 490 
The saying, "He laughs best who laughs the last," 
Was never better proved. Nor is that all — 
A haughty spirit ne'er had harder fall. 
Great was the joy throughout the Southern host, 
Nor could they tell whom they should honor 

most, 495 

The gallant men, who long with odds had fought, 
Or who at timely moment succor brought. 
They freely hailed as Blucher of the day 
Brave Kirby Smith and all his fine array 
Of spirits bold, who in well ordered ranks, 500 

Made that forced march and struck the foeman's 

flanks. 
Virginia great and noble Tennessee 
In this grand march and battle for the free 
Joined with fair Maryland who now again 
Met with fond pride her sisters on the plain, 505 

When her brave exiles led by Elzey bold 
Fought with the dash of the proud days of old. 
And how all cheered Jeff Davis on the field 
Just as the foe in headlong flight did yield ! 
Th' influence of that great triumphant day 510 

Was felt in ev'ry step of that dark way 
Which our Confed'racy so bravely trod. 
On ev'ry field that stained Virginia's sod 
Or dyed the plains and hills of all our land 
From broad Potomac to the Rio Grand'. 515 

The Fed'ral government in milder tone 
And mien less haughty than it once had shown, 
Though still resolved to wage an earnest fight 
The Union tO' maintain, now yielded right 
Of brave belligerents, which we had won S^o 

By the strong deeds our gallant boys had done. 
No longer now did they with scorn presume 



22, The Strife of Brothers. 

Toward their foes such lofty airs t' assume, 

As had McClellan, when to Pegram's rank 

He would not give respect. For this we thank 525 

Not any change of hearty, since far less bold, 

With many of their men in captive hold. 

Were those who had before so haughty been. 

To all war's glory many a mournful scene 

Gives darkest background desolate and drear. 530 

Surely no one, beholding sorrow's tear, 

When breaking hearts bemoan their loved ones 

gone, 
Can help but feel that fame can ne'er atone 
For all the grief that follows in war's train. 
Could Bee's or Bartow's glory still the pain 535 

Which throbbed in hearts bereft in each sad home ? 
And ne'er again to greet fond eyes will come 
The chief * who led fair Alabama's sons 
Or he II who fell before the hostile guns 
At head of North Carolinians strong and bold. 540 
And ne'er in fitting language can be told 
The sorrows of the thousands South and North, 
Who mourned the gallant boys that had gone forth 
From out their presence never to return. 
The Southern States willed not this cruel war. 545 
Peace with their brethren they preferred by far. 
The government they never wished to harm, 
Or cause their sister States the least alarm ; 
And seeking a new Union did no more 
Than did our fathers in the days of yore. 550 

They just as sadly severed once loved bond 
As did our sires, who with affection fond 
Had looked upon Old England's meteor flag 
And in the fiercest battles did not lag 
Where that proud banner pointed them the way, 555 
Until that ever dark and mournful day, 
When their just rights vwere scornfully denied. 
Then England's power they valiantly defied. 
Destroy the government? Such motive they 
To us have oft assigned since that sad day, 560 

When South and North contending stood apart 
In strife, the cause of grief to ev'ry heart. 

■■''Colonel Jones of the Fourth Alabama. 

11 Colonel C. F. Fisher of the Sixth North Carolina. 



The Strife of Brothers. 23 

"That charge, so oft repeated, here we scorn 
-As of base calumny and falsehood born. 
To save the rights of sovereign States we sought 565 
-And for our homes and liberties we fought. 
To do to others as we'd have them do 
Is law of love and perfect justice too. 
There is not in our Union strong and great 
Of our proud commonwealths a single State, 570 

That ever would have ratified the bond;, 
Had it been known that sentiments most fond 
And safety of its people would in dust 
Through laws conceived in malice most unjust 
Some day be trampled, as in that dark hour, 575 

When so-called statesmen with short lease of 

power 
Robbed Southern States of ev'ry sovereign right 
And by no other law than tha^t of might 
Into our temple holy brought a race. 
That under no condition e'er could grace 580 

Those honors which to citizens belong, 
And which our founders meant for th' ages long 
Should unto white men only appertain. 
Ah ! not for lust of power or party's gain 
Should such a sacred trust have e'er been shared 585 
"With those who for its use were not prepared. 
Cod speed the day that rights each burning wrong, 
Truly unites our States and make us strong! 
When all do justice and each cause remove 
Which in our Union hinders perfect love. 590 



The Strife of Brothers. 25 



BOOK IL 

The Battle-Tide's Alternate Ebb and Flow* 

When from Manassas backward rolled war's tide, 
' 'Twas staid along Virginia's eastern side 
And there long space * remained ; so strong the 

blow^ 
That quelled the might and spirit of our foe. 
The banners^ that on Southern outposts waved, 5 
Looked into Washington and prou<ily braved 
McClellan's gathering hosts, who lingered there 
To organize and thoroughly prepare 
For new invasion of such mighty power, 
That, when it moved, they fondly thought the 

hour 10^ 

Of doom would strike for our Confed'rate States, 
A prey to them and war's relentless fates. 
Save here and there some gallant outpost fights, 
Naught broke the quiet of the morns and nights 
Along Potomac's banks, until the day 15: 

When heroes met in fierce-contested fray 
And gave the North another mournful name, 
As Leesburg and Ball's Bluff increased the fame 
Of Nathan Evans ^ and the gallant men 
Who followed him to victory again. 20 

Though Darnesville gave to Stuart 1 1 a defeat. 
Yet, when he came again his foe to meet, 
He found abandoned field and wounded men. 
'Twas sad to fall in battle ; cruel, when 
Some lonely picket, as he walked his beat, 25 

Did in night's solitude death's summons meet; 

* There was not another serious attempt at invasion in 
Virginia for about eight months. 

t General Nathan G. Evans, who had won great reputa- 
tion at the First Manassas, commanded the Confederate 
force at Leesburg. 

II General J. E. B. Stuart was repulsed at Dranesville,. 
but on returning next morning to renew the fight, found, 
that the enemy had gone, leaving many wounded. 



.26 The Strife of Brothers. 

Sad news for loved ones, whether from the North 
Or South the unknown hero had gone forth, 
.Hardship to suffer and to bravely fight 
For what with honest soul he deemed the right. 30 

Beyond the Alleghanies armies moved 
In march and countermarch and daily proved 
^How gallant volunteers could bravely stand 
'Mid toils and perils in that rugged land, 
Where West Virginia's charming little dales 35 

_And tow'ring mountains circling those fair vales 
Witnessed the sacrifice by heroes made, 
As life they freely gave the cause to aid. 
-Brave comrades! How their names in mem'ry 

dwell ! 
'Choice spirits who did ev'ry duty well : 40 

McPherson Felder/ who in combat died, 
And graced with patriot blood Cheat Mountain's 

side ; 
.And Private Brown^- who' early in the day, 
At Greenbrier's battle, entered the dark way, 
That heroes often tread and won a fame 45 

As well deserved as that which crowned the name 
Of Edward Johnson,* or of him who led 
Our Httle band that day, when brave men bled, 
;Henry R. Jackson, H Georgia's gallant son. 
Who there 'gainst heavy odds the vict'ry won. 50 
Yet unto them not greater praise is due 
Than to those other gallant spirits true, 
W^ho smitten by disease obeyed death's call 
In lonely tent or crowded hospital. 
A hero's grave did Dillard Adams "^^^ fill 55 

Who slept the patriot's sleep at Laurel Hill. 

t A private soldier of the First Eegiment of Georgia Vol- 
aanteers, a noble young man, who was killed in a skirmish 
on Cheat mountain. 

XT>. W. Browm, Company F (Gate City Guards), of the 
same regiment mentioned in General Henry Jackson's re- 
port for heroic conduct. 

^Colonel Edward Johnson, a Virginian, commander of the 
Twelfth Georgia Regiment, who commanded the picket 
forces at the battle of Greenbriar River, and who rose to 
the rank of major-general. 

II Brigadier-General Henry R. Jackson, of Savannah, Ga. 

** A private soldier of Company D (Oglethorpe Infantry 
of Augusta), First Regiment of Georgia Volunteers. 



The Strife of Brothers. 27 

So our two comrades^ who went home to die, 

And in Augusta's cemetery He^, 

Sam Holmes and WilHe Miller,!' true and brave, 

As surely died their native land to save, 60 

And served the cause of country just as well. 

As knights who in the battle's forefront fell. 

How many more of our dear friends we lost 

In those four years of war, whose fearful cost 

None ever knew as those who sat forlorn 65 

In homes bereft, of fondest treasures shorn. 

Next to dear ones at home the soldier boys 

Loved them, who shared their perils and their 

joys, 
And they who died the first left impress strong, 
That would with friends abide their whole lives 

long. 70 

How varied were the scenes through which we 

passed! 
Those memories with us will ever last : 
The lonely picket post, the march, the fight, 
The scouting expedition in the night,"^' 
Whose darkness could be felt, as poured the rain 75 
Through which we groped, and longed for day 

again, 
Whose dawning found us perilously near 
The hostile camp, whence we could plainly hear 
The sentry's cry : ''All's well !" while sound of 

drum 
Could not entirely drown the noise and hum 80 

Of soldiers in the early morn astir. 
At such an hour did some one think of her 
Who gave at time of parting promise sweet. 
Which with her mother's full consent did meet? 
Be sure he did and wondered if he e'er 85 

Would realize the hope to him so dear. 
With danger near her bright smile cheered him 

still, 

II These two young men, the first a sergeant, the other a 
private, were also members of Company D, First Georgia. 

*This and the twenty- two following lines refer to a night 
expedition of one hundred men from the First and Twelfth 
Georgia Regiments, led by Lieutenant Dawson, of the 
Twelfth Georgia, who was afterwards killed at the battle of 
Alleghany Summit, December 13, 1861. 



28 The Strife of Brothers. 

And her clear^ flute-like tones his soul did thrill 

With some remembered song of long ago^ 

As fancy heard her accents soft and low. 90 

And strength he gathered, while in waiting there, 

From recollection of the parting prayer, 

As he with father and with mother knelt 

In that far Southern home ; and still he felt 

The kiss each gave to their beloved one, 95. 

Their hope for coming years, their only son. 

How brightly after tramp by night and day 

Camp Bartow's * welcome fires lit up the way 

To guide the weary, lagging steps of those 

Who found sweet rest at Traveler's Repose. lOO' 

Now frequent rains, with snows and chilling blast, 

That did for dreary weeks continuous last. 

Thwarted each movement by the leaders planned 

And kept unwilling truce on ev'ry hand. 

Some combats there occurred with varying lot, 105, 

Important fruits for either yielding not. 

The fearful hardships told with dread effect. 

As all of either army recollect. 

How many to the elements succumbed. 

In ev'ry fibre of their frames benumbed! no- 

Almost as heavy damage was sustained 

As if a battle had been lost or gained. 

The campaign closed one bleak December morn, 

W^hen Milroy led his army just at dawn, 

W'here Edward Johnson with a little band — • 115: 

Brave Georgians and Virginians — took his stand 

On Alleghany Summit,"^ there to stay 

And by heroic fighting win the day. 

Far to the east their comrades had been sent, 

Where "Stonewall" Jackson now his efforts bent 120- 

On noble scheme to rid Virginia's land 

On north and west of ev'ry hostile band. 

Ah ! had our leaders then but known the man 



* Named in honor of General Francis Bartow, killed at 
the first battle of Manassas. This camp was between the 
Alleghany and Cheat mountains, near a West Virginia 
post-ofRce in Pocahontas county, at the head of a beautiful 
little valley, in which occurred many outpost skirmishes 
and the battle of Greenbriar River. 

tThe battle at this point occurred December 13, 186U 
There Edward Johnson had been left with a small force, 
when Loring's division was sent east- 



The Strife of Brothers. 29 

And given ample means to work his plan ! 

Of eighteen sixty-two the op'ning day^, 125 

With morn as balmy as in time of May, 

Beheld a force of near ten thousand men 

Set out with Jackson to win back again 

The valley of Potomac's southern branch. 

His own "Stonewall Brigade," so true and stanch, 130 

Led on by Richard Garnett, brave and strong, 

With Loring's three, who'd suffered hardships 

long, 
And knightly Ashby's horsemen, frank and bold, 
Whose deeds in thrilling words have oft been told. 
And five good batteries of steady boys, 135 

Who ne'er in fiercest combat lost their poise. 
Moved in high spirits, ready all to go, 
Wherever Jackson led against the foe. 
Before the day had closed, a northwest blast 
Brought cold that in its grip held all things fast. 1 40 
The snow and sleet and ice their ardor chilled, 
And, sure, their cup of misery was filled, 
When wagons with supplies lagged far behind, 
And foodless they upon the ground reclined 
With scanty cov'ring 'gainst the bitter cold. 145 

But dauntless "Stonewall," resolute and bold, 
Shared all their hardships, ever urging on 
His weary men, whose strength was well-nigh 

gone. 
Yet who with him as leader drive the foe 
O'er stream where broad Potomac's waters flow. 150 
Though thus his district Jackson quickly cleared. 
Men high in rank at Richmond interfered, 
•And fruits obtained at such an awful cost 
Of toil and dreadful suffering were lost. 
Our weary tramps o'er frozen roads and streams 155 
Made real what in our youth seemed fancy's 

dreams, 
When we were told of snows incarnadined 
By bleeding feet, as men of dauntless mind 
T'ollowed great Washington long years before 
And, like true Spartans, fearful hardships bore. 160 
To be as they our souls had oft aspired. 
As stories of their deeds our young hearts fired ; 
Nor now 'mid trials did we quite forget 
Heroic thoughts that lingered with us yet. 



30 The Strife of Brothers. 

When to the blues we felt like giving way, 165 

The song and lively jest became our stay^ 

And loud the most despondent latched again, 

As jolly comrade, in a merry vein. 

Quoted in tragic tone with humor blent, 

"Now is the winter of our discontent!" 170 

Or some light-hearted Reb would comfort bring. 

As he in lively strain began to sing : 

''Then let the wide world wag as it will, 

We'll be gay and happy still." 

With ''gay and happy" then the cold blasts rang, 175 

And troubles fled, as on we tramped and sang. 

As closed the days of eighteen sixty-one, 
The South rejoiced o'er brilliant exploits done. 
Within Virginia's bounds the Southern star 
Resplendent shone, while in the West afar 180 

Sons of Missouri, Texas, Arkansas 
And Louisiana in successful war 
Had cheered our hearts and made renowned the 

names 
Of Price, McCulloch, Parsons, Clark and Rains, 
McBride and Mcintosh and gallant Slack, 185 

Who had their foes on that dread field forced back, 
Where Lyon,"^ fearless Union chief, was slain, 
Striving by headlong charge the day to gain. 
Next Wilson's Creek was matched at Lexington, 
Where on the flag of Price rose vict'ry's sun; 190 
And, when our boys did Grant at Belmont meet, 
Success they plucked from jaws of dire defeat."^ 
Our soldiers and our people fondly dreamed 
Our armies invincible.- To us it seemed 
That, wheresoe'er we fought, we'd surely win, 195 
Whene'er our foes the conflict might begin. 
The leaders plainly see the gath'ring storm, 

* Brigadier-General Nathan Lyon fell leading the charge 
of the Union army at Wilson's Greek. 

tin the battle of Belmont, General Ulysses S. Grant, with 
equal numbers attacked the Confederates under Generals 
Pillow and Cheatham, defeated them and captured their 
camp. Reinforcements sent by General Leonidas Polk 
turned the tide and Grant was driven to his transports, on 
which he succeeded in escaping. 

X Manassas and Wilson's Creek, the two most important 
battles of the year, and most of the minor combats had been 
won by the South. 



The Strife of Brothers. 3I- 

As threat'ning clouds along the borders form. 

Their warning voices, though, were heeded not, 

And needful preparations were forgot, 200 

Till from the low'ring skies the tempest burst 

And of disasters thick the very worst, 

That should for many months befall ou- arms, 

Spread o'er the land the direst of alarms. 

When Grant's advance at Donelson appeared 205, 

And now in marching line that fortress neared, 

Perhaps a well-coiicerted, prompt attack 

Had on Fort Henry + hurled his columns back. 

But naught was done, and after fearful night 

Of rain and snow and sleet came welcome light, 210- 

Although the morn would usher in the fight. 

The Fed'ral troops assaulting meet defeat. 

And o'er stout efforts of Foote's Union fleet 

A triumph grand the brave Confed'ratcs gain. 

But, ere the shades of evening fell, 'twas plain 215, 

That naught could save the army but retreat. 

Conditions most adverse they now must meet. 

Enclosed on ev'ry side by Union host 

In numbers far the stronger, at the most 

All that our Southern chiefs could hope to do 220- 

Would be to rout Grant's right and thus break 

through. 
Heroic was the plan by leaders formed ! 
With his division dauntless Pillow stormed 
Successfully the Fed'ral right at dawn, 
While Buckner also in the early morn^ 22f- 

Assailed the Union center with such might 
That it was broken bv his gallant fight. 
With Oglesby and Wallace * pushed aside 
And Logan driven by fierce battle-tide. 
The Southrons now had won the open way, 230- 

And, promptly moving, could retreat essay 
With strong- assurance of complete success. 
But Pillowj^with intent the foe to press, 
Ignored the plan, and at a fearful cost ! 
For this delay the golden moments lost, ^ 235 

And Grant around them drew his cordon tight. 

t Fort Henry, defended by a small Confederate force, was 
captured on February 6th by the army under Grant and. 
Commodore Foote's fleet of iron-clad gunboats. 

* W. H. L. Wallace, one of Grant's best officers. 



32 The Strife of Brothers. 

Alas ! 'twas useless to prolong the fights 

Open to Nashville was the river still. 

So Floyd bade his brigade the boats to fill 

And with them he and Pillow sailed away. 240 

Bold Forrest and his horsemen, long ere day, 

Flound'ring through icy water, reached dry land 

By way no footman, howe'er strong, could stand, 

And thus escaped, while Buckner and the rest, 

Ranking among brave soldiers with the best, 245 

Were captive made. It was a stunning blow 

From which our rally in the West was slow.* 

Although West Tennessee Grant now o'erran. 

Our Albert Sidney Johnston formed a plan. 

Which, if successful, would our cause restore 250 

And sweep the foemen from our land once more. 

To Beauregard a rapid march he made 

And with that chieftain's strong and ready aid 

Fell like a thunderbolt from cloudless sky 

Upon the foe, who did not dream him nigh. 255 

And now Polk, Hardee, Breckinridge "^ and Bragg, 

With soldiers who did not a moment lag. 

Pushed stubborn Sherman and McClernand back, 

And by their ever-swelling, bold attack, 

Swept through the fiercely-stinging ''Hornet's 

Nest," 260 

Where Hurlbut, Wallace, Prentiss and the best 
Of those brave Western soldiers long held out, 
. Until by whelming pressure turned about, 
As Wallace ^ fell, they left the bloody field. 
Excepting Prentiss, who was forced to yield 265 

His brave division prisoners of war. 
Of Grant's whole force the greater part by far 
In total rout was driven from the field, 
And, those who stoutly fought, were forced to 

yield. 
Their camp with richest spoil of every kind, 270 

*Fort Donelson with that part of the garrison that did 
not escape, nine thousand in all, surrendered on February 
16, 1862. 

tMajor-General John C. Breckinridge, now of the Con- 
federate army, had. been, during the administration of 
Buchanan, the Vice-President of the United States. 

+ General W. H. L. Wallace was killed at a very critical 
moment of the battle. 



The Strife of Brothers. 33 

With all that victors could desire to find, 

Cannon and needful stores^ they left behind. 

But a few thousand of the very best 

With leaders kept their ranks, while all the rest, 

Por miles in rout along the Tennessee 275 

In dire confusion or wild terror flee, 

Or crouch beneath the banks in frantic fear. 

Dreading- lest conqu'ring foes should soon draw 

near. 
But sorrow deep was brooding o'er our host ; 
For he in whom our army trusted most, 280 

The power and guiding spirit of that day, 
Great Albert Sidney Johnston '^ lifeless lay. 
Of our great chief this most untimely fall 
Brought saddest ruin to the hopes of all. 
His plans successfully were working out, 285 

When in his dying ear the victor's shout 
Rose, thrilling all his host. But his grand form, 
That rode majestic 'mid the battle-storm, 
W^as now laid low, and his inspiring voice 
A'Vould never more his heroes' hearts rejoice. 290 

Short of the perfect work the charge was staid 
And Beauregard "^ the final stroke delayed. 
Believing that the task was almost done, 
And that with morn the work sO' well begun 
In triumph grand could be completed quite, 295 

He gave surcease of battle for the night. 
But Buell,* whom he thought still far away. 
With a fresh army came at close of day, 
As did Lew Wallace, I ' ready for the fray. 
Greatly outnumbered now and sorely pressed, 300 

The rising battle-tide the Southrons breast 
From early morn until the afternoon, 
When feigning an attack, they very soon 

"General Albert Sidney Johnston was mortally wounded 
<iuring the grand victorious charge at Shiloh, on April 6th, 
dying in a few moments. 

7 General. P. G. T. Beauregard, distinguished in the First 
Manassas and other great battles of the war. 

+ General Don Carlos Buell, whose timely arrival saved 
Grant's army from destruction. 

II General Lew Wallace, who has since the war won great 
distinction as an author, "Ben Hur" being his greatest 
work. 



34 ^^^^ Strife of Brothers. 

Felt pressure lifted, and a cov'ring force, 

Whose hearts invincible proved strong- resource, 305 

With Breckinridge as leader was deployed. 

Surcease of battle then, awhile enjoyed, 

Gave undisturbed withdrawal from the field. 

The hostile force perceives not that they yield : 

So well does Breckinridge the movement shield. 310 

Delib'rately securing captured arms, 

As if about them raged not war's alarms, 

In order they retired with spoil of foe, 

Who> wearied out, were glad to have them go. 

Although they'd failed their purpose to fulfill, 315. 

The Southern boys were full of courage still, 

And, though compelled by numbers to retreat. 

They would not own on second day defeat. 

A disappointed hope they would admit ; 

But own it as defeat? No ! not a bit. 32a 

Kentucky won great honors on each day 

Of Shiloh's fierce and well-remembered fray. 

Great Albert Sidney Johnston was her son. 

And knightly Breckinridge proud honors won. 

Both in the charge and bringing up the rear, 325 

Collecting captured arms with foe so near. 

And with his gallant men to duty true 

He made it vain for Fed'rals to pursue. 

High also on Kentucky's roll of fame 

Doth proudly stand George W. Johnson's ^ name, 330 

Who chief in place among her exiled ones 

Fell fighting in the ranks of her brave sons. 

True men there were from ev'ry Southern State 

Who in this battle shared the gen'ral's fate. 

Among whom with the bravest of the brave 335. 

Died Adley Gladden,'' our loved cause to save. 

Fair Louisiana's valiant foster son. 



* George W. Johnson was elected provisional governor of 
Kentucky by the Confederate council of that State, lie 
went into the battle of Shiloh as aide to General Breckin- 
ridge. His horse was killed in the first day's fight, where- 
upon he enlisted as a private in Company E, First 
Kentucky Infantry, and, fighting in its ranks, was mortally 
wounded on the second day. 

t Brigadier-General Adley H. Gladden was a native of 
South Carolina, and was Major of the "Palmetto Regiment" 
from that State, being promoted to Colonel after the battle 
of Churubusco in Mexico, in which he gallantly led the- 



The Strife of Brothers. 35 

Who once for native State high honors won^ 

When brave 'Tahiietto boys" obeyed his voice 

And did with him as victors proud rejoice. 340 

In spite of final faiUire and retreat 

And disappointment which our men did meet. 

The crushing blow on Shiloh's first day dealt 

Was then by Grant's command so keenly felt, 

That for some time they were less eager far 345 

Again to try uncertain gage of war ; 

And many idle boasts of later years 

Their hesitation then and uttered fears 

Do without doubt most certainly belie, 

And claims they've made which records all deny. 350 

If they had dared immediate pursuit, 

Their deeds would now their boastings better suit. 

Their valiant men, who 'mid disasters dire, 

When comrades panicked fled the hostile fire. 

Stood firm and true, deserve fame's highest 

meed; ^ 355 

But 'tis vain boasting to deny the need 
They had for ev'ry man by Buell brought, 
To win back e'en the camp for which they fought 
And therewith were most certainly content. 
If 'twas not so, pray, tell us now, what meant 360 
On morning of the eighth Grant's urgent call. 
If Buell's men he needed not at all ? ^ 



regiment, when both the colonel and lieutenant-colonel 
had been killed. He was a citizen of Louisiana when the 
war between the States began, and went to the field with 
her troops. He commanded a brigade at Shiloh and was 
killed in the first day's battle, April 6, 1862. 

* Some Federal writers, Grant among the number, have 
claimed that Grant could have won on the second day of 
battle, even if Buell had not come. But all the records are 
against any such absurd claim. 

On the morning of April 8th, while Buell was still with 
him, and Breckinridge with his division of Confederates 
was still but a short distance from the Union camp, Grant 
telegraphed to Halleck : '* It would be demoralizing upon 
our troops here to be forced to retire upon the opposite 
bank of the river, and unsafe to remain on this many weeks 
without large reinforcements." 

On April 14th, General Halleck, upon his arrival in camp 
to take command, said to Grant: "Your army is not now 
in condition to resist attack." 



36 The Strife of Brothers. 

A cloud on Grant by Shiloh '*' had been cast, 
Which did for many months continuous last; 
And vacillation marked each Fed'ral move 365 

In all the plans that Halleck did approve. 

The Southern people to th' occasion rose, 
Astounding by their valor friends and foes. 
Then a new gathering of the hosts occurred ; 
Through hills and plains the battle-cry was heard, 370 
And men whose term of service had expired, 
Again, by zeal and love of country fired. 
Went forth to bear anew the battle's brunt, 
Hasting to join their comrades at the front. 
B'en some upon sick leave, ere they were well, 375 
Hurried away the army's ranks to swell. 
Among these last one all unknown to fame, 
Who promise had that he his bride might claim. 
When to his home he should return in peace. 
Now, hopeless that the conflict soon would cease, 380 
From his fair lady's father gained consent. 
That they should wed, ere back to war he went. 
No fortune could he lay before her feet, 
And doubt there was, if they again should meet. 
When from her side he went that summer day, 385 
Perhaps to die in some fierce battle's fray. 
But heroes brave and true were niaiden§ then 
And dauntless amid perils as the men. 
The two were wed 'mid loved ones' smiles and 

tears, 
And glad congratulations banished fears.- 390 

^ The returns of Grant's army for April 4th and 5th show 
present for duty forty four thousand, eight hundred and 
ninety-five men. On the day of the battle (April 6), some- 
thing over five thousand of these under General Lew 
Wallace were not up and did not reach the field until late 
in the evening. At the same time Buell came up with a 
fresh army of twenty thousand effectives. The loss of the 
Union army was one thousand, seven hundred and fifty- 
four killed, eight thousand, four kundred and eight w^ounded 
and two thousand, eight hundred and eighty-five captured — 
in all thirteen thousand and forty-seven. 

By the official records the Confederate army numbered 
forty thousand, three hundred and thirty-five men on the 
first day, and they were not reinforced by a single man. 
The loss of the Confederate army was one thousand, seven 
hundred and twenty-eight killed, eight thousand and twelve 
wounded, and nine hundred and fifty-nine missing or cap- 
tured — in all ten thousand, six hundred and ninety-nine. 



The Strife of Brothers. 37 

In God they trusted, and sweet faith and love 

Enabled them to look to Him above, 

Whose shield, they fondly hoped, was o'er them 

spread. 
And who, in spite of war,, would blessino-s shed 
On His dear children, who for refuge fled 395 

To Him alone. So thus, e'en in that hour. 
When they must part, war's terrors lost their 

power. 
And joy and pain were strangely, sweetly blent. 
As with fond kiss their sep'rate paths they went. 

Though for six months of eighteen sixty-two, 400 
In spite of all that valiant men could do, 
Success oft followed by defeat did still 
Each Southern breast with disappointment fill. 
Yet rifts had in the clouds anon appeared, 
What time Buchanan * all the Southland cheered, 405 
When the Virginia "^ crowned our navy's arms 
With victory's light and spread such dire alarms 
Through all the North : nor ceased her exploits 

here. 
She in her short and glorious career 
From Hampton Roads and Sewell's Point won 

fame, 410 

* Admiral Franklin Buchanan, of the Confederate States^ 
navy. 

t When the Federal authorities abandoned the navy yard 
at Norfolk, Va., in April, 1861, they sank the Merrimac. 
The Confederates raised this vessel and under plans sug- 
gested by Lieutenant John M. Brooke, converted it into an 
ironclad, which they named the Virginia. On March 8^ 
1862, it attacked the Federal fleet, captured and burned the 
Congress, sank the Cumberland, ran the Minnesota aground 
and scattered the rest of the fleet. On the next day the 
Monitor appeared upon the scene, and by keeping between 
the Virginia and the Minnesota, saved the latter from de- 
struction. In this battle the Virginia finally drove the 
Monitor into water so shallow that the Virginia could not 
follow. Then she steamed back to Norfolk. On April 11th, 
the Virginia tried to bring the Federal fleet, which included 
the Monitor, another ironclad, the Minnesota and other 
frigates to battle. The Virginia and the wooden boats of 
the squadron took possession of the "roads," cut out three 
vessels from under the enemy's guns and defied the Federal 
fleet, which refused to accept her challenge. On the 8th of 
May the Federal fleet attacked the batteries at Sewell's 
Point, but the Monitor and another ironclad and all the 
rest of the fleet fled upon the approach of the Virginia. 



3^ The Strife of Brothers. 

And left as noble heritage her name.''' 

'Twas after New Orleans and Memphis fell, 

That Vicksburg- and Van Dorn withstood so well 

All efforts of the mighty Union fleet 

And all attacks successfully did meet. 415 

Then with the Arkansas brave Isaac Brown 

Raised up our hopes that had been once cast down. 

When he with his good ship the gauntlet ran 

And baflled Farragut's and Davis' plan. 

O'er better officers or truer crew 420 

Commander's gallant pennant never fl^w. 

Out from the Yazoo's stream they forced their way 

And o'er three other vessels won the day ; 

Then down the Mississippi sought the fleet 

Whose fearful odds they dreaded not to meet. 425 

Each heart beat high with resolution bold 

To do a deed, whose like had ne'er been told, 

An'd record make of duty well performed, 

Though shot and shell around them fiercely 

stormed. 
Pilot John Hodges earned the meed of fame 430 

And left to coming years a hero's name, 
Who, ere they cleared the Yazoo's narrow stream, 
While iron bolts and shell around them scream, 
When borne of¥ wounded, said with dying breath, 
''Keep middle of the river!" Then in death 435 

Closed eyes of him who with a patriot's soul. 
Forgetting self, thought only of the whole. 
When word was brought : ''The flag is shot away !" 
Despite the leaden hail that fell that day 
And swept with deadly hurricane the deck, 440 

Midshipman Scales did naught of danger reck. 
But m.ounting ladder swung the colors high. 
When metal plates, the seething boiler nigh, 
Became so hot, that those who fed the flame, 

*0n May 11th when Norfolk was abandoned by the Con- 
federates, Commodore Tatnall destroyed the Virginia, 
because her bulk would not permit her sailing up the James 
river, and she could not safely sail upon the sea. But at 
Drewry's Bluff the crew of the Virginia successfully de- 
fended Fort Darling against five Federal ironclads and 
saved Richmond from attack by the Union fleet. The Con- 
federates afterwards built the James River Squadron, one 
of the best vessels of which was the new Virginia, and this 
fleet bore an important part in the defense of Richmond. 



The Strife of Brothers. 39 

Could there no longer stay^ then succor came 445 

In brave Lieutenant Grimball and the men 

Who took their place, till they could breathe again. 

Bold Quartermaster Eaton's ringing voice^ 

While chiding laggards, made the brave rejoice 

With words of praise, as he gave helping hand 450 

To any injured of that gallant band. 

Lieutenant Gift was wounded in the arm, 

And Master's Mate John Wilson met like harm. 

A bursting* shell brought sixteen brave men low 

And set the ship on lire ; but^ never slow, 455 

Lieutenant Stevens, rushing with the hose, 

Put out the flames ere any one of those 

Who fought near by had taken the alarm. 

Of this division Curtis without harm 

Most wondrousl}^ escaped. Great Captain Brown, 460 

Though from his dang'rous platform thrice hurled 

down. 
Stood firm and strong* amid the hostile fire, 
Nor did from post of danger e'er retire. 
Midshipman Clarence Tyler near his side 
Stood bravely in this battle's fearful tide, 465 

Till wounded sorely he was borne away, 
Regretting that he could no longer stay. 
With Shacklett wounded and John Hodges dead, 
Pilot James Brady steered the ship ahead. 
A/'an Dorn and Breckinridge both viewed the fight 470 
From A'^icksburg's court-house top, and at the 

sight 
Stood breathless, while the seeming rash attempt 
Obtained success, of which they little dreamt. 
Though more than twenty ships with iron-clads 
Had hurled their bolts upon the gallant lads, 475 
They brought their vessel in grand triumph out 
'Mid loud exultant cheer and thrilling shout. 
And ladies fair and children joyed to see 
That feat which set the "Heroic City" free.* 
When formed war's threat'ning cloud in early 

spring . , . . . 480 

It seemed invasion's tide would ruin bring 

* After this successful fight of the Arkansas and her 
victory in another battle over the Federal ironclads sent 
by Farragut to destroy her, the Union fleets sailed away and 
Vicksburg had a period of rest from attack. 



40 The Strife of Brothers. 

E'en in Virginia on the Southern cause. 
But daring heart of one ' gave needed pause 
To put our desp'rate efforts on their feet 
And give us strength our thronging foes to meet, 485 
In the fair valley of the Shenandoah, 
■ Near where the Blue Ridge Mountains upward 

soar. 
Was Stonewall Jackson with a little band, 
Beset by tenfold odds on ev'ry hand. 
As constant reinforcements forward go 490 

To swell the ranks of our too mighty foe, 
How swift is Jackson's swoop that spreads alarm,* 
Lest to their capital shall come some harm, 
And, as each southward move was straightway 

stayed. 
How well on Fed'ral fears our leaders played! 495 
Then, as they sent to Jackson needed strength. 
Thus giving him a better chance at length 
To strike for his loved cause a telling blow. 
How his strange moves bewildered friend and foe, 
Till quickly flashed the news one morn of May : 500 
"God blessed our arms with vict'ry yesterday !'•!' 
When suddenly again he disappeared. 
With dread uncertainty the foemen feared, 
Not knowing where the lightning's bolt would 

strike. 
The Valley army, soon, tornado like, 505 

With swift, resistless rush swept all before 
And routed foes in dire confusion bore. 
Till over the Potomac Banks had passed 
And sent congratulations that at last 
From Jackson's clutch his army was secure. 510 

Long as the lives of those- brave men endure. 
Who followed Jackson on that glorious day 
When through glad Winchester they forced their 

way, 

t "Stonewall'^ Jackson. 

* Jackson, with a little more than three thousand men 
attacked General Shield's army of seven thousand at 
Kernstown, and though repulsed, so alarmed the Federal 
authorities for the safety of Washington, that they stopped 
the movement of reinforcements to McClellan. 

II At McDowell, where Jackson defeated Fremont's ad- 
vance toward Staunton. 



The Strife of Brothers. 41 

Will recollection fond the scene recall, 

As, with glad shouts and smiles and tears of all, 515 

Children^ fair women and old men rushed out. 

While yet the deadly missiles flew about, 

To greet the loudly cheering Southern host^ 

'Mongst whom were many whom they loved the 

most. 
Sons, fathers, brothers, husbands, lovers, friends ; 520 
While wild ecstatic joy with sorrow blends ; 
Joy^ as they clasp them in a fond embrace, 
Sorrow for perils that they yet must face. 
Americans ! who live in South or North, 
Will such a scene fail ever to bring forth 525 

The recollection of those days of old. 
Of which from childhood's years we have been 

told? 
How patriots, who had fought to free our land 
From British tyrants' strong, oppressive hand, 
Received glad greetings as they homeward came 530 
From fields where they had won eternal fame ? 
Some Southern hearts those days can ne'er forget 
And oft in wonder question even yet^ 
How true Americans such scenes recall 
And feel no honest blush of shame at all, 535 

That sovereign states they helped to overthrow 
And sought to bring our noble race so low 
As willingly to wear a t3^rant's chain. 
Thank God! Through weal or woe, through joy 

or pain. 
To those great principles the fathers taught 540 

The South with faith that never has been bought 
Hath true remained and by them steadfast stood. 
Restore by force the Union ? Never could 
The bayonets of all the earth do that. 
Force killed the one, where Love, once mighty, 

sat, 545 

And o'er devoted hearts supremely reigned. 
Coercion lost the old, the new then gained. 
Those heroes of the North, who bravely fought 
And, although vainly, yet sincerely sought 
To save intact and wholly unimpaired 550 

The Union, while the rights of States they spared, 
Found at the last that tyrants seized the reins 



42 The Strife of Brothers. 

And o'erthrew sovereign States for party's gains.* 
The dear old Union^ by true hearts deplored, 
We oft have feared, could never be restored. 555 
Thank God;, the newj, though first on pillars laid 
Of dire coercion, may, howe'er be made 
By justice and sweet love so like the old;, 
That none will wish to leave its shelt'ring fold! 
How had the lightning stroke of our "Stone- 
wall" 560 
Sent consternation to the hearts of all 
Who led th' opposing hosts and marred their 

scheme ! 
In danger their own capital they deem. 
Fremont and Shields from different points con- 
verge 
And forward rapidly their armies urge 565 

To catch the wary Jackson in their snare. 
He, of their purpose perfectly aware^ 
Imboden sent to guard each pass and gap 
And then in safety marched from out their trap;, 
With captives by the thousands in his train 570 

And wagons with such spoil as victors gain. 
By Turner Ashby and his horsemen bold 
Whose deeds ne'er fail to thrill, whenever told. 
Our army's flanks and rear were guarded well. 
Time fails us all their exploits here to tell. 575 

How Percy W3mdham, a young English lord^ 
Did merriment to all the land afford. 
When his vain boast that he would Ashby bag;, 
By sequel proved what folly 'tis to brag! 
To his smart game the Southern chief was up ; 580 
And Percy captive had that eve to sup 
With Captain Conrad of our Ashby's staff, 
Who in a single combat turned the laugh 
Upon the English lord : so well 't was done. 
It gave to Ashby's men a lot of fun. 585 

But sorrow followed quickly upon joy, 
Which seldom comes on earth without alloy. 
Soon in victorious fight our Ashby ^ fell, 

*The reference here is to the reconstruction era when ty- 
rants ruled the hour, a period that ought to put the blush 
of shame upon the cheek of every true American. 

T Brigadier-General Turner Ashby was killed near Har- 
risonburg, Va., June 6, 1862. 



The Strife of Brothers. 43 

JLeaving a name in true hearts treasured well 

And linked in fame with that of his great chief 590 

Por deeds of each almost beyond belief. 

How was the crowning day of that campaign 

.Hailed through the South^^as joy bells rang again, 

When Jackson's sabre from its scabbard flashed, 

As ^'remont's legions to one side he dashed 595 

And quickly next in flight Shields' columns 

hurled;, 
While blows he struck astounding all the world ! 
jPour times his numbers he had grandly foiled 
And well-concerted plans of foemen spoiled. 

Meanwhile McClellan after Seven Pines 600 

Stood marking time in his well-guarded lines. 
When Johnston wounded was borne off the field, 
Where 'neath his blows did Couch and Casey 

yield, 
In Robert Lee the hour and man well met^ 
And chief appeared whom fame will ne'er forget. 605 
binding an army sick from hope deferred, 
"Yet by a longing- great for vict'ry stirred. 
Ready in country's cause to do or die 
And ne'er yet forced from any field to ?iY, 
Lee promptly saw occasion grand had come 610 

To mass his forces and at once strike home. 
Stuart, Virginia's knightly cavalier, 
In spirit bold and knowing nought of fear, 
Made daring circuit of McClellan's host. 
Obtaining knowledge that was needed most 615 

To aid Lee's plan for making an attack 
To drive in rout the Fed'ral army back. 
AVhen Lee to Jackson reinforcements sent. 
As though a march on Washington were meant, 
With such great tact of military art 620 

And wondrous skill did Jackson act his part, 
That, while his dread approach the foemen feared, 
He left their front and near Lee's lines appeared. 
One feeble efifort did McClellan make 
Aggressive action once again to take. 625 

But King's Schoolhouse beheld its prompt defeat, 
AVhere A. R. Wright advanced the foe to meet 
AVith Georgia boys in battle ever bold 
And Louisianians strong their lines to hold. 
These promptly from their front the foe repel 630 



44 ^^^^ Strife of Brothers. 

And then with headlong charge and "rebel yell" 
Swept the whole field and noble triumph won 
Gaining high honor by their deeds well done. 
Two sons of Georgia in this day's brave fight. 
Who laurels won that shone in lustre bright, 635 
Of that career a good beginning made, 
Which later in the famed Doles-Cook brigade '*' 
Linked their proud names as leaders bold and 

true 
And ever prompt heroic acts to do. 
Not for one moment were Lee's plans set back 64a 
By this abortive effort at attack, 
When Jackson's signal guns announcement made 
Of his approach^ nO' longer was delayed 
The forward movement of that Southern host 
Whose exploits wondrous charm all readers most. 645 
From Maryland to Texas came the men, 
With spirits eager to repeat again 
The glories of Manassas' famous fields 
Where haughty foes had been compelled to yield. 
The Southern cross above them floated high, 650- 
Bright harbinger of glorious triumph nigh. 
Behind lines well entrenched the Fed'rals stood 
And hold these, they had thought, they surely 

Avould. 
Theirs was the larger force and 5^et they deemed 
That whelming odds around their army 

streamed. 655 

Knowing that thus they felt, our leaders played 
On this opinion: thus Magruder II stayed 
Three times his strength by his well-feigned attack 
That kept all needed reinforcements back. 
While Lee with larger force assailed their right, 660' 
Where Fitz John Porter" made his gallant fight : 
And yet more marvelous to tell or hear, 

* George Pierce Doles and Philip Cook, the former being- 
colonel and the latter adjutant of the Fourth Georgia Kegi- 
ment. Doles became brigadier-general and was killed at 
Bethesda church, Jnne 2, 1864, upon which Cook, then 
colonel, was made brigadier-general. 

II Major-General J. Bankhead Magruder, a brave and 
dashing Confederate officer. 

t Major-General Fitz John Porter, one of the ablest offi- 
cers of the Federal army. 



The Strife of Brothers. 45 

As Jackson moved toward their right and rear^ 
The magic of his name held off at bay 
Three armies from this conflict far away, 665 

Who thought Imboden''^' and a thousand horse 
Were dreadful "Stonewall" with a mighty force, 
And thus^. while guarding 'gainst a phantom host 
Palled to appear where they were needed most. 

The twenty-seventh day of June at dawn, 670 

When 1)ugles woke the echoes of the morn, 
Up from their couch of grass or naked earth 
Sprang the true men who always proved their 

worth 
To rank with heroes brave of ev'ry clime, 
Poremost on roll of Fame since birth of Time. 675 
As forw^ard Lee's gray lines so grandly moved^ 
Points, which the eve before, too strong had 

proved 
For Ripley's and for Pender's"' bold attack. 
Were yielded now, as Porter's men fell back 
To New Cold Harbor's lines and Gaines's Mill;, 680 
On which advanced A. P. and D. H. Hill, 
And Longstreet also, leaders true and tried 
As ever for their country fought or died. 
Thoug-h forward through dense woods his lines 

must move, 
AVhile still more difftcult the deep swamps 

prove, ^ 685 

Pushing- right on, the troops of A. P. Hill^ 
Drive Porter's skirmishers from Gaines's Mill;, 
Then over Powhite swamp impetuous dash 
And, although shot and shell among them crash/ 
'Gainst Porter's center now so strongl}^ push, 690 
That Slocum to his aid is forced to rush. 
Before the wooded slope of Turkey Hill, 
Which from its base to top the foemen fill 
With skirmishers and two strong battle lines, 

* General Imboden had been left in the Shenandoah Val- 
ley with one thousand cavalry with instructions from 
Jackson to keep up a clatter in the neighborhood of the 
Federal armies. 

t Wm. D. Pender and Roswell S. Ripley were able Con- 
federate generals. 

t At this time major-general, promoted later for his dis- 
tinguished services, to the rank of lieutenant-general. 



4^ The Strife of Brothers. 

Longstreet'*' just next to Hill his forces joins, 695 

Whose movement o'er the plain is dang rous made 

By heavy guns with deadly enfilade. 

Upon Lee's left toward the Fed'ral right 

"Was Jackson marching to begin his fight. 

With his advance moved gallant D. H. Hill, 700 

Who o'er all obstacles pressed onward still, 

Till 'cross a swamp with tangled undergrowth 

He met his valiant foemen^ nothing loath 

To try conclusions and to block his way 

At ev'ry step on this so well-fought day. 705 

While Kwell's forces strove to onward press 

And felt the furious battle's desp'rate stress^ 

■^Lawton's on-moving bold brigade he spied. 

The brave Virginian then exultant cried : 

"Hurrah for Georgia!" and his sword waved 710 

To cheer the men^ whose timely aid had saved - 

The battle at this well-contested point. 

Long A. P. Hill and Longstreet tried each joint 

Of Fitz John Porter's works so stoutly held, 

Which fierce assaults seemed but to tightly weld. 715 

Adown the sk}^ the summer sun declined 

Nor wished-for victory these chiefs could find. 

Hark ! On the breeze redoubled thunders swell 

And on their left th' inspiring rebel yell 

Assurance gave of what they'd long desired 720 

And with new ardor flagging zeal inspired. 

"Jackson has come !" was news that quickly 

spread^ 
As shook the ground beneath the martial tread 
Of Whiting's H men by peerless Stonewall sent 
With timely succor^ while his power he bent 725 
With utmost strength against the Union right, 
Where regulars of Sykes-^^ made gallant fight. 
Whiting's brave leaders, valiant Law and Hood, '^ 

* James 0. Longstreet, at this time a major-general, whose 
ability gained him the rank of lieutenant-general. This is 
also true of D. H. Hill and Eichard S. Ewell. 

t Brigadier-General Alexander R. Lawton, later quarter- 
master-general of the Confederate States. 

II Major-General W. H. 0. Whiting, a gallant Confederate 
officer. 

X A very able Union major-general. 

"Brigadier-General E. M. Law, afterwards major-general. 
Brigadier-General John B. Hood, promoted later to major- 
general, lieutenant-general and general. 



The Strife of Brothers. 47 

Arranged their lines with all the haste they could, 
At Longstreet's signal forward to advance. 730 
As on his moving line fell Hood's proud glance, 
With ringing voice he cried: "Boys, falter npt 
And halt not once, not e'en to take a shot. 
O'er ev'ry obstacle resistless sweep 
And ever onward without pausing keep." 735 

Like words did Whiting to Law's men address, 
As this advice on all they strove t' impress. 
Now, though like autumn leaves, at each step fall 
Brave men who for their country give their all. 
The rest in silence swiftly onward rush, 740 

The first opposing line before them brush, 
Then to artill'ry's roar and musket's crash 
With a wild shout reply and upward dash, 
Driving from out their works the stubborn men 
Who find no chance to rally now again; 745 

For a wide gap does Whiting's charge tear 

through, 
Which fast is held by his brave men so true, ^ 
With all the Fed'ral cannon at that place 
Which erstwhile swept with deadly storm the 

Space, 
O'er which the brave Confederates had charged : 750 
And the broad gap was farther still enlarged, 
As Anderson's and Pickett's lads swept through 
And drove before them the brave men in blue. 
Wild was the joy of Hood's Fourth Texas then 
And also of his Eighteenth Georgia men, 755 

Who charging on together made first break 
As they from brave Morell the first guns take. 
In this there shared the men of Law's command. 
Eleventh Mississippi close at hand 
With Alabama's Fourth, behind whom came 760 
North Carolina's Sixth of noble fame • 
And Mississippi's Second of proud name. 
With wild exultant shouts still pushing on 
The first named four yet other honors won 
Increasing list of captured guns. Just then 765 

Hood's Texas First and Fifth with Hampton's 

men 
Before them also drove the fleeing foe, 
Who finding their way blocked essayed to go 



48 Tlie Strife of Brothers. 

Past Law's rear rank'% which quickly faced about 
And helped to take them in ; while thrilling 

shout, yyo 

That rolled with mighty sound from, left to rights 
Announced that charging with resistless might 
Our Stonewall Jackson, Ewell^ D. H. Hill 
Had joined with Longstreet and with A. P. Hill 
In rush of all IvCe's heroes sweeping on 775 

And that at ev'ry point the field was won. 
'Twas at this moment of supreme delight 
That^ filled with ecstasy of gallant fight^ 
Brave Captain Stewart mounted on a gun 
And in a speech replete with joy and fun 780 

Told what the Eighteenth Georgia boys had done. 
This day decided all the grand campaign. 
McClellan thought not of attack again ; 
But refuge only sought and safe retreat 
Beneath the shelt'ring guns upon his fleet ; 785 

And to this purpose he was steadfast still, 
Nor from it swerved e'en after Malvern Hill, 
Where, though he claimed success, he waited not 
To try another fight^ lest fortune's lot 
Should cut him off and shut off ev'ry chance 790 
T' escape from Lee's much-dreaded flank advance; 
And thus by gallant fights and game of bluff 
Lee gained a triumph wonderful enough.'' 
Through all the perils of the Seven Days 
Of valiant deeds there were such grand dis- 

P^ays 795 

"The First and Fifth Texas and Hampton's (South Caro- 
lina) Legion of Hood's Brigade were on the left of Law's 
Brigade, while Hood's Fourth Texas and Eighteenth Geor- 
gia, under Hood's immediate command, were on the right 
of Law. The rear rank of Law's Brigade in this charge 
consisted of the Sixth North Carolina and Second Mississippi. 

tLee with eighty thousand men had attacked and defeated 
McClellan's one hundred and five thousand protected by 
breastworks, had raised the siege of Richmond, captured 
fifty-two cannon, thirty -five thousand small arms, ten 
thousand prisoners, of whom more than six thousand were 
unwounded, and had either captured or caused the Federals 
to destroy many millions of dollars worth of army stores. 
Scarcely ever in history has there been a more overwhelm- 
ing victory gained by a smaller army over a larger orie 
composed of men of the same race. The character of the 
war in Virginia w^as changed for nearly two years by the 
"Seven Day's Battle." 



The Strife of Brothers. 49 

By heroes of the South and of the Norths 

At e^-'ry opportunity called forth, 

That they have ever caused with pride to swell 

Hearts of Americans^ within which dwell 

Honor's rewards for those who offer all 800 

In willing sacrifice at country's call. 

While to brave foes we grant the meed of praise, 

Glad songs of triumph for our bo3^s we raise. 

How gladly would we mention ev'ry one 

By whom heroic and great acts w^ere done ! 805 

Of two. whose deeds were very like^ we tell, 

An officer and private^ acting well, 

Each in his sphere, the part to him assigned 

And giving thus sure proof of valiant mind. 

With mother's pride the old Palmetto State 810 

Doth ]\Iajor Haskel's* courage grand relate^ 

AVhose patriot soul impelled him to. forget 

His shattered arm and ask for orders yet 

From gallant Hood, who saw his ghasth^ wound 

And ordered him to leave the battleground. 815 

The valor he'd in that grand charge displayed 

And the regret with which he now obeyed 

Deeply impressed each g'allant-hearted man 

AVho saw his courage, ere the charge began 

And when, with torn-off hand 'mid captured 

guns 820 

He stood a peer among the South's best sons. 
On that same day of famous Gaines's Mill 
A Georgia private did his part fulfill 
With equal courage, and the tale is told 
By his lieutenant, true himself and bold.* 825 

The Thirty-first by Clement Evans led 
Was in the thickest fight where heroes bled. 
Young W^ilson Pierce received an uglv wound 
Which tore his hand, as lying on the ground 
The men awaited signal to advance. 830 

Lieutenant Harrison with but a glance 



* Major John Haskel of South Carolina, the Palmetto 
State. 

t W. H. Harrison, known among Georgia Confederate 
Veterans as Tip Harrison, at that time lieutenant, but 
afterwards a captain in the Thirty-first Georgia Regiment, 
of which the gallant Clement A. Evans was colonel, after- 
wards promoted to be brigadier-general. 



50 The Strife of Brothers. 

Knew the brave lad could do no more that da}- 

And from the battle ordered him away, 

Bidding him run to place^ where he could be, 

While caring for his hurt, from danger free. 835 

But with delib'rate pace and slow he moved;, 

Receiving wound^ which later mortal proved. 

He, being asked, why 'twas he had not done 

As ordered^ said : "I did not want to run." 

Oft through that stirring week along the front, 840 

Where valiant soldiers bore the battle's brunt^ 

Jefif Davis on the lines with Robert Lee 

Among the men appeared^ who joyed to see 

Our president and noble leader near 

And always greeted them with rousing cheer. 845 

In those proud days our final triumph seemed 

A thing assured. Ah ! little then we dreamed 

Of storm that on our nation's chief would burst. 

When some day for our sakes he'd bear the worst 

That hate could pour on his devoted head, 850 

While for his sorrows ev'ry true heart bled. 

Richmond^ fair cit}^ on the noble James, 

At thought of thee^ how many glorious names 

On our fond memories come trooping back 

Of men who lofty courage ne'er did lack 855 

To fight in thy defense or die for thee^ 

That thy loved homes forever might be free 

From fierce Oppression's strong uplifted hand 

That threatened thee and all our Southern land. 

And thy fair daughters ! Ah ! no poet's lays 860 

Can e'er extol with too exalted praise 

Their noble sacrifices, gladly made 

Their brave defenders and the cause to aid. 

There is not in the South a single State, 

From which some son had not the happy fate 865 

To know the tender care thy. women gave, 

In hospital or home, his life to save. 

Thy noble men and precious children, too, 

Did all that loving hands and hearts could do 

To cheer the sick or wounded soldier's lot, 870 

Whom e'en 'mid their own griefs they slighted not. 

Richmond will live in each true soldier's heart 

Who e'er in her defense bore gallant part. 

And her proud fame with children's children 

dwell, 
Till the Archangel sounds Earth's funeral knelt. 875 



The Strife of Brothers. 51 



BOOK III. 



The Tide of Southern Triumph Onward Rolls. 

O glorious news that flashed from east to west. 
When God with victor}^ our arms had blessed ! 
The siege of Richmond had been grandly raised, 
And all the South Lee's noble army prais.ed^ 
Forgetting not the glory^to assign 5 

To Him whose guiding hand, to us benign, 
The plans had thwarted of our mighty foe, 
That, like a storm-cloud fraught with fearful woe. 
Had threatened to o'erwhelm our lovely land 
And scatter ruin dire on ev'ry hand. lo 

Ah ! was the faith of Lee and Jackson vain ? 
Or shall we now against God's will complain? 
Poor feeble man knows not the way that's best. . 
God to his people oft hath sorrows blessed ; 
'And, though disaster's tide upon them rolls. Is 

The whelming flood doth not o'erflow their souls. 
All-trusting love doth ever cast out fear, 
And this one thought hath filled our hearts with 

cheer ; 
A\'hen vict'rv crowned our arms, we praised His 

name, 
And, when on us disasters direful came, 20 

Our people bowed beneath His chast'ning rod 
And 'mid their sorrows lost not faith in God ; 
And, spite of all oppression fierce could do. 
They've to tlieir patriot fathers' faith been true. 
Defeat l^it helped to show the spirit grand 25 

That marks the people of our Southern land 
And proves their right to the proud title ''great." 
Who've triumphed over most disastrous fate 
With the same lofty- courage that had won 
The praise of ev'ry land beneath the sun, 30 

Wlien the proud Southern cross was floating high 
'Xeath Old A'ireinia's or Kentuckv's skv. 



The Strife of Brothers. 53 

What wondrous change the "seven days" had 

wrought ! 
And what high hopes unto our people brought ! 
Retreat upon retreat had foHowed fast 35 

And towns and forts been yielded, till at last 
'Twas doubtful question, if we long could stand 
'Gainst whelming odds that poured upon our land. 
But Jackson triumphs in the Shenandoah 
And Lee's great victory such fruitage bore 40 

Of marvelous success, that nought could stay 
The rising of the tide, that swept away 
The foemen's mighty hosts, though at great cost, 
And seemed about to win back all we'd lost. 
In Old Virginia "forward!" was the word, 45 

And our exultant soldiers' shouts were heard 
In Mississippi and in Tennessee, 
As with firm resolution to be free 
From fierce invasion's all-destroying power 
Our heroes waited, eager for the hour, 50 

When the command "Advance !" should greet the 

ear ; 
And tidings glad their spirits daily cheer. 
While Bragg's impatient host at Tupelo 
Stood eager thus to march against the foe. 
The hardy horsemen of the great Southwest, 55 

In strength and courage equal to the best 
That rode beneath the starry Southern cross^ 
Whose souls ne'er failed for peril or for loss^ 
At the commander's word quick sallied forth 
To smite with might their foemen of the North. 60 
"The Wizard of the Saddle," Forrest,'" came. 
Carving with flashing sword his dreaded name 
On lofty tablet in Fame's noble hall : 
And old Kentucky boys, who gave up all 
To ride with bold John Morgan, swift uprose 65 

And struck with heavy hands the Southland's foes. 
Joe Wheeler, peer of any, Georgia's son. 
Who both for her and Alabama won ^ 

Honors as high as e'er crowned gallant knight, 
Amid the foremost fought for home and right. 70 
Dashing from ev'rv side on scattered posts. 



* Nathan Bedford Forrest of Tennessee 



54 '^'^'(^ Strife of Brothers. 

They spread alarm among th' invading" hosts, 
While tidings borne on ev'ry swelling breeze 
Tell of rich spoil which from the foe they seize^ 
And captives by the thousand in their train 75 

Raise high the hopes of those brave men again 
Who under Kirby Smith and Braxton Bragg'^, 
With spirits that would not for trials lag, 
AVait for the word that l^ids them to begin 
The northward march, their lost ground back to 

win. 80 

While yet they waited, joyous tidings came. 
Shedding new lustre on our "Stonewall's" name 
And giving Southern hearts still greater hope, 
As Jackson backward drove the boastful Pope, 
Wdio^ after all his vaunts, now turned with fear 85 
At news of danger lurking in his rear. 
For wary "Stonewall" first at Cedar Run 
His telling strokes had splendidly begun 
And, sweeping round his now bewildered foe, 
To famed Manassas made all haste to go 90 

And guns and captives seized and, what was more, 
All kinds of rich supplies laid up in store. 
Then, reinforced by thousands strong and brave. 
His reputation Pope strove hard to save 
And fell on Jackson with tremendous power, 95 

Hoping that he had found a favVing hour 
To win great glory on the very field. 
Where Northern arms had once been forced to 

yield. 
Like solid rocks, 'gainst which the mad waves 

dash. 
With sullen roar and awe-inspiring crash, 100 

Jackson's stout legions all undaunted stand 
And hurl the foemen back on ev'ry hand. 
And now^ with master stroke, that won new fame, 
Great Lee with Longstreet to the rescue came 
And fell like lightning on the foemen's flanks, 105 
Who then with crushed and badly broken ranks 
Retreated from another dire Bull Run, 
Where Southern arms another day had won. 
Thus, to the great amazement of the world, 
The mighty Northern hosts, in flight now hurled, no 
Recrossing the Potomac took their stand 
Beyond the border of Virginia's land. 



TJic Strife of Brothers. 55 

The shouts of triumph from Manassas' plain 

Were echoed from Kentucky back again, 

Where on the selfsame day with mighty hand 115 

Our Kirby Smith struck down the hostile band, 

Making renowned another Richmond's name/''- 

While one mor.e triumph graced our roll of fame. 

As Lee's proud soldiers ford Potomac's wave 

And in its waters first their footsteps lave, 12c 

Glad strains of martial music greet the ear 

And "IMaryland, my Maryland!" sounds loud and 

clear. 
So in the West brave Southern hearts beat high 
Wdiile float their banners in Kentucky's sky 
And flags of Smith and Bragg still northward 

soar -^^^ 

And carrv terror to Ohio's shore. , 

Glad with these hosts Kentucky's exiles come 
To bask awhile in loved one's smiles at home. 
Ah ! then w^e hoped to gain what we had sought, 
For which our heroes toiled, endured and fought. 130 
And what was that? The doctrine stoutly claimed, 
When our brave sires of "seventy-six" proclaimed 
The people's right their government to change, _ 
A\dien safety should demand; nor thought it 

strange 
For colonies united to decree 135 

That thev from Britain should henceforth be free. 
For sovereign States we claimed the very right, 
Which thev for colonies had won in fight. 
And did the safety of the South demand 
Thar which we dared for our dear native land? 140 
Whether good cause there was for us to fear, 
Lest peril to the South were drawing near, 
'Gainst which forewarned, our people were alert 
And which they strove so bravely to avert, 
Let reconstruction tyrants answer give, ^ 145 

To whom, that Anglo-Saxon rule doth live 
In these fair States, we nought of thanks do owe. 
To that keen sense of justice, not so slow, 
When once aroused, which, thanks to God ! doth 
dwell, 

* The victory at Richmond, Ky., was gained on the same 
day on which the Confederates gained the second battle ot 
Manassas in Virginia. 



56 The Strife of Brothers. 

As in the South, so in the North as well^ 150 

Is due whate'er of sovereignty remains 

To all our States, whate'er our land retains 

Of what was noblest in the old regime, 

Which better than the new to some doth seem. 

And yet with all its faults that e'en the new 155 

Is best that's left on earthy we think is true. 

And better still the new may yet be made, 

When Love and Justice once more lend their aid 

State sovereignty and Union to unite 

In noble land, wherein Right dwells with Might. 160 

Now from these thoughts turn we to fields again 
Where heroes strive the mast'ry to obtain. 
Lee's plans were thwarted by an order lost 
Which valor rectified at fearful cost. 
Though at South Mountain men of D. H. Hill, 165 
Strengthened by Longstreet, try each gap to fill 
And keep McClellan's whelming numbers back. 
To hold all points the needful strength they lack. 
But win the fight for time, though many a man 
And leader closed this da}^ his life's short span. 170 
None braver than the noble Garland"^^' died 
Of all who for the victor's wreath there tried. 
And stoutly Howell Cobb at Crampton's Gap 
Fought to secure Lee's plan against mishap, 
'Mid hottest fire that smote our ranks that day, 175 
Two wounded Georgians on the red field lay^ 
Lieutenant Lowe and Colonel Jeff Lamar/ 
Of whom the Colonel's hurt was worse bv far. 
They saw that there was need of speedy change 
To shift Cobb's legion from most deadly range. 180 
"Bill," said the Colonel, "lift me up, I pray. 
That needful orders I may clearly say." 
Then with his unhurt arm Lowe raised Lamar. 
Whose voice stentorian rang through din of war ; 
"By the right flank, Cobb's Legion, forward 

march!" 185 

Waving his sword aloft with graceful arch. 
As is the way of chiefs who give command. 

* Brigadier-General Samuel Garland, of Virginia, was 
killed at Fox's Gap on South Mountain, September 14, 1862. 

t Jeff M. Lamar of Cobb's Georgia Legion, and Lieutenant 
Wm, B. Lowe of the same command. 



The Strife of Brothers. 57 

But flashing blade drops from his nerveless hand 

As whistling bullet smites the hero down, 

Who, while he saves his men, wins martyr's 

crown. 190 

When Franklin'' through the gap had forced his 

way, 
'Twas just as friendly night had closed the day. 
And now did brave McLaws- his troops dispose 
To baflie farther movement of his foes, 
Till Jackson could Lee's cherished plan complete 195 
With Harper's Ferryfl prostrate at his feet. 
Whence he twelve thousand captives with rich 

store. 
Cannon and all supplies as trophies bore. 

And now Lee's forces on Antietam's banks 
Near Sharpsburg village in well-ordered ranks, 200 
With less than forty thousand at the most 
Await the coming of McClellan's host. 
Who with their more than twofold numbers 

thought 
That they would win the day, whene'er they 

fought. 
Advancing from South Mountain, they believed 205 
Lee in retreat and past defeats retrieved. 
These hopes the news from Harper's Ferry chilled 
And with uncertainty their spirits filled ; 
While Lee's brave soldiers Jackson's coming 

cheers 
And his great triumph scatters doubts and fears. 210 
Just as the sun climbs o'er South Mountain's crest 
And with his beams, that glance from east to west, 
Looks smiling down on Cumberland's fair vale^ 
Joe Hooker's valiant men that point assail 
Where stand the heroes of the lion heart, 215 

Prepared to act that da}' a gallant part. 

t Major-General AVm. B. Franklin of McClellan's army. 

X Major-General LaFayette McLaws of the Confederate 
army. 

II At Harper's Ferry, Stonewall Jackson captured twelve 
thousand prisoners, seventy-three cannon, thirteen thousand 
small arms, two hundred wagons, and a great quantity of 
military stores. The battle of South Mountain was fought 
to prevent McOlellan from interfering with Jackson's ope- 
rations. 



58 The Strife of Brothers. 

lliere Jackson leads with chieftains true and tried 
As ever for their country fouglit or died. 
Around the Dunker church ui field and wood 
His noble men the onset fierce withstood. 220 

Though through them cannons' bolts and muskets' 

fire 
Tore fearful gaps and scattered ruin dire^ 
And. though with gallant Starke and Douglas 

l^rave''' 
So many hundreds died the South to save, 
Unfalt'ring still the men of gallant Hood 223 

With those of Early, Lawton, Trimble stood, 
While men of James G. Walker gave their aid 
And by McTaw's success was surer made. 
Firm as the walls of strong Gibraltar's rock 
These heroes stood the fearful battle's shock. , 230 
A'ainly did Hooker, Mansfield, Sumner "• rush 
And strive with whelming odds their foes to crush. 
A'ainly they urged persistent, bold attack ; 
Their gallant ranks were driven shattered back. 
With valiant Richardson and Mansfield slain 235 
And Hooker wounded borne from battle plain. 
Their broken columns in defeat withdrew 
Nor could again their fierce attack renew. 
Of Fed'ral chiefs had Jackson met the best 
And of their strongest efforts stood the test. 240 

The lads of D. H. Hill win fame again 
.Where many die within the Bloody Lane ; 
But now o'erwhelming pressure drives them back 
As French and Franklin make their strong attack. 
Seeing impending ruin drawing nigh, 245 

The dignity of rank Longstreet lays by, 
Holding the horses' bridles^ while Sorrell, 
Latrobe and Fairfax man the cannon well, 
And Xorth Carolina's braves with Colonel Cook 
"With banners floating high most threat'ning look, 250 

■'■Brigadier-General Wm. E. Starke, of Virginia and Col- 
onel Marcellus Douglas, of Georgia. 

At Sharpsburg or Antietam the Federal army numbered 
eighty-seven thousand men and the Confederates something 
less than forty thousand. 

See Derrv's "Story of the Confederate States" ; also Offi- 
cial Records. 

tMajor-Generals Joseph K. Mansfield and Edwin V. Sum- 
ner of the Union army. 



The Strife of Brothers. 59 

As without cartridges they firmly stand 

Braving aU perils for their native land. 

The foenien hesitate ; then gmis of Hill 

With deadly crossfire all their ardor chill, 

While Longstreet. bringing Nathan Evans' men 255 

And Anderson's, makes safe our lines again. 

Robert and Levi Smith and brave Barclay^ 

Newton and Philip Tracy died this day/'' 

Upon Lee's left and center battle ceased 

And now these points from pressure were 

released. 260 

Tow?ard Lee's right for four hours of that" day 
Toombs and his Georgians brave blocked Burn- 
side's way 
And 'gainst ten times their numbers held the 

ridge 
Thar with its rocks o'erlooked Antietam's bridge. 
Four times did Sturgis urge his gallant men ; 265 
Tour times the Georgians hurled them back again, 
AVhile Holmes and Millicant great deeds display 
And yield their noble lives to win the day. 
But now at length Burnside's great army corps, 
Outnumb'ring Jones and Toombs five times or 

more, 2yo 

Bv Ranking move have crossed the narrow stream 
And, charging on. themselves as victors deem. 
Quick to the rescue wath its splendid guns 
The Rockbridge batt'ry past our Gen'ral runs, 
And. as its horses swift go whirling by, _ 275 

A private black with powder coming nigh 
Salutes his father, then speeds to his gun. 
'Tw'as Robert Lee, our chieftain's youngest son! 
Now Burnside charging almost grains Lee's rear, 
AVhen on his flank doth A. P. Hill appear,- 280 

From Harper's Ferrv hasting since the morn 
AVith men who perils and all hardships scorn. 

"^Robert Smith, Levi Smith. 

Barclay , LieutenaLnt-Colonel J. M. Newton and Major 

Philip Tracy, both of the Sixth Georgia. 

t Colon el Wm. R. Holmes, of the Second Georgia and 
Oolonel AVm. T. Millican of the Fifteenth Georgia. 

tMajor-General A. P. Hill had been left by Jackson to 
secure the rich supplies captured at Harper's Ferry. Hav- 
ing: done this he hastened to Sharpsburg, reaching the field 
of battle in time to hurl back Burnside's corps. 



6o The Strife of Brothers. 

Fording" the river with no pause for rest. 

As ope their cannon from the ridge's crest. 

With ringing shout on Burnside's corps they rush 285. 

And down the slope his broken cohimns brush. 

The South's proud banners wave in triumph higl: 

And loudly rings her thrilling battle-crv, 

As with the setting of the autumn sun 

The hnal struggle of the day is won. 290* 

The stars come out and look with pitying gaze 

On bloodiest field of all the war's sad days. 

Xext day from early dawn to dewy night 

Lee stood prepared to give IMcClellan light. 

Though having heavy odds, the Federal chief 295: 

E'en with fresh troops, with caution past belief. 

Waited for more e'en yet. while warv Lee. 

With skill most wonderful and rare to see. 

Toyed with his fears ; then, ere another day. 

In order with his army moved away. 300 

One effort at pursuit ^IcClellan tried. 

But in defeat his vain endeavor died. 

In the fair valley of the Shenandoah, 
U here joy it was to be with friends once more. 
Lee's noble army found a well-earned rest, 305 

Sweet e'en to heroes ranking with the best. 
Who've since Time's birth for country bravely 

fought 
And valor's meed with zeal untiring sought. 
Amid the splendor of the autumn woods 
Or scenes that gave bright hope of nature's goods 310' 
They gladly roved, or bathed in limpid streams : 
And oft with hearty shouts and merry screams 
Those braves, so used to bear the battle's brunt. 
Stretched their fleet limbs in race or lively hunt. 
While friends, who in the distance heard their 

noise, 315 

Cried : "There goes Jackson or a rabbit, boys I" 
While thus the army rested, Stuart bold 
AA'ith horsemen, whose brave deeds Fame oft hath 

told, 
^lade Pennsylvania's Quakers ope their eyes 
In 'wild'ring doubt, dismay and strange surprise. 320 
As through their land swept on the dashing raid. 
Which of ^NlcClellan's host the circuit made. 
On pleasing theme, my !Muse. awhile now dwel'. 



The Strife of Brothers. 6i 

And show how ah that encleth weU is weU. 

In Georgia's Thirty-first there was a lad 325 

Who witli a courage high and spirit glad 

Obeyed his country's stirring slogan call 

And to her cause had consecrated all. 

'Mid leaden hail, where Ewell wounded fell,* 

lohn Clayton bore the Southern banner well, 330 

Till hissing minie robbed him of his eye. 

But not the pain of wound brought deepest sigh. 

'Twas Susie BuUard's fair and witching face 

And form endowed with ev'ry charm and grace, 

That came before the vision of his mind. ^ 335 

Ah ! Would her glance be now to him so kind, 

As when she bade her soldier boy farewell 

W^ith smiles and tears that in his heart still dwell r 

Such doul)ts unworthy torture all his soul, 

As homeward swift the moving train doth roll. 340 

So soon as he could meet his lady fair, 

In her dear presence with dejected air 

He doubtful stood and in his sad heart said: 

" 'Twere better far,, if I were with the dead!'' 

Then spake aloud: '^I can not hold you now 345 

Or deem that vou must keep that cherished vow. 

Mv honor prompts that I should give release 

And bid mv fondest hopes forever cease." 

But sweetlv then her voice the silence broke, 

As in her earnest words her true heart spoke: 350 

''But V\\ not take release. I love you more. 

And with a fonder pride than e'er before." 

How thrilled his soul with joy, no words can tell. 

They onlv know, with whom true love doth dwell. 

Though 'now exempt from service, his brave 

heart 355 

Impelled him still to act a patriot's part. 
Through battles fierce the colors proud he bore 
Till peace returned to bless the land once more. 
Then two true hearts the holv vows did plight 
In love that aye should live without a blight." 360 

^General Richard S. Ewell lost a leg at Second Manassas. 
After his recovery he returned to duty and served m the 
field to the end. 

tl have put into verse this true story, which is related by 
Captain Wm. H. (Tip) Harrison in his thrilling book, The 
Man with the Musket." The captain kindly Rave me per- 
mission to use it. J- ^- ^^r^J- 



62, The Strife of Brothers. 

To tell, as it deserves, each noble deed, 
Of volumes without number there'd be need. 
A few alone we've space and time to tell ; 
Help me, my Muse, to give the story well. 
Virginia's William Smith,' old brigadier, 365 

As colonel in his four and sixtieth year 
At First Manassas in the front was founds 
At Seven Pines received a painful wound^ ^ 
Three more on Sharpsburg's well-contested field 
And yet to toils and dangers did not yield ; 370 

But after Gettysburg promotion gained 
And highest honors from his State obtained. 
And Captain William Brown, great Georgia's son. 
Fought with the noble Twelfth at sixty-one, 
On many fields high reputation made 375 

And died at Ox Hill,- leading a brigade. 
Grand John B. Gordon, Bayard of our host. 
Ranking with leaders whom we honor most. 
At vSharpsburg five times struck and life despaired. 
In many another desp'rate battle shared, 380 

And, winning warrior's crown and wreath 01 

peace. 
Had love of comrades destined ne'er to cease. '^' 
With these of hoary hairs or manhood's prime. 
Honors as great in ev'ry land and time 
Belong to all those thousands of our youth, 385 

Who loving courage high and lofty truth. 
To country's cause were faithful unto death 
And proved their loyalty till latest breath. 
Whether they died 'mid strife of battle-field. 
Or late in days of peace their lives did vield. 390 

tGeneral Wm. Smith wa« before the war a Governor of 
Virginia, after the First Manassas was made a brigadier- 
genera], after Gettysburg a major-general and after the war 
was Governor of Virginia again. 

+ 0r Chantilly, as this battle is also called. Oapt. Wm. F. 
Brown of the Twelfth Georgia was commanding a brigade 
of Georgians, Alabamians and North Carolinians, when 
killed. 

llJohn B. Gordon, enlisting as a private, was elected cap- 
tain, rose to the grade of lieutenant-general, commanded 
the left wing of Lee's army at Appomattox, was after the 
war elected Governor of Georgia and twice Senator, was 
elected commander at the first reunion of United Confed- 
erate Veterans and re-elected at each reunion. He died 
January — , 1904. 



TJic Strife of Brothers. 63 

At second battle on Manassas' plain, 

Where Northern soldiers met defeat again, 

A lad of eighteen on that famous day 

Upon his father's staff in thickest fra}^ 

AVas sorely wounded; and though maimed for 

life, ' , 395 

When well again, returned to battle strife ; 
Nor did his martial service ever cease 
Till grim War's banners had been furled in peace ; 
And long hath Georgia crowned brave William 

W' right 
W^ith honors grateful to her loyal knight.' 400 

A major going to the war's stern field 
To his two boys reluctantly did yield 
That to Virginia they with him might go. 
Couriers the two were made with hope that so 
From hardship they might somewhat shielded be. 405 
Two manly youths they were and fair to .see ; 
The elder but sixteen, both full of zeal 
And all the ardent fire that patriot's feel. 
By fell disease the three were smitten down 
And died ere they could win the warrior's crown ; 410 
But Georgia in her list of hero dead 
Three times enrolls the name of Lallerstedt. 
Of Georgia's sons who were at Sharpsburg slain 
None truer fell than Captain AVilliam Plane; 
Just such a leader as brave men esteem 415 

And of the highest honors worthy deem; 
And such a man as wholly filled a heart 
That from his cherished image ne'er could part, 
And held the South's "lost cause" all else above 
For his dear sake with an undying love. ^ 420 

Like all of these the South can myriads claim 
Who crowned her brow with never-ending fame. 
Not for slight cause such sacrifice was made ; 
They felt endangered country claimed their aid. 

As end of eighteen sixty-two draws near, 425 

Invasion's swarming hosts again appear. 

tHon Wm. A. Wright, son of Major-General Ambrose 
Ransom Wright, lost a leg at the second battle of Manassas, 
while serving on his father's staff. In a few months he was 
at the post of danger again and served to the c ose of hos- 
tilities. He has been for many years Comptroller-General 
of the State of Georgia. 



64 The Strife of Brothers. 

To Fredericksburg they move with steady tramp 
And near the heights of Fahiiouth pitch their 

camp. 
No needful preparation had they spared 
And hoped to Imd the Southrons unprepared. 430 
But o'er the Rappahannock^ lo ! they see, 
Unwelcome sight, the men of Robert Lee.'^' 
At last Burnside prepared the stream to cross, 
A task that cost no little time and loss, 
The heart of Mississippi swells with pride 435 

At story of her sons so true and tried; 
Who under Barksdale held their dang'rous post 
And hindered long the cros.sing of the host^ 
Whose guns from Stafford Heights their lines 

assail 
And on that one brigade rain iron hail 440 

Which smites their ranks and sets the town on 

fire 
And spreads on ev'ry side destruction dire. 
Nine times was Sumner's Grand Division stayed 
And Franklin's also was as long delayed.'' 
When Lee was ready^ Barksdale's men withdrew, 445 
And lasting fame crowned chief and soldiers true. 
Now on the plain Burnside his host arrays 
And his proud banners floating high displays. 
From bayonets glance the' sun^s reflected light, 
As move the lines of blue in war's stern might. 450 
In suits of dust-stained gray Fee's vet'rans wait, 
AVith grim resolve and souls unmoved as fate. 
Where Stuart's horse artill'ry pours its fire 
On Franklin's lines with aim so sure and dire, 
See how the youthful Pelham ^ grandly leads 455 
And stirs each Southern heart to valiant deeds ! 
Fair Alabama's joy and pride was he, 
And oft with honor named bv Robert Lee. 
As Meade and Gibbon promptly entrance made 

*General Burnside, who had succeeded McCIellan in com- 
mand of the Union army, had hoped to seize Fredericksburg 
before the arrival of Lee's army. 

tBrigadier-General Wm. Barksdale's brave fight gave Lee 
twenty-four hours in which to prepare for the battle and also 
gave notice of the points of attack. 

iMajor John Pelham, of Alabama, a youthful hero, often 
mentioned in the dispatches for conspicuous gallantry. 



The Strife of Brothers. 65 

Through gap 'twixt Archer's line and Lane's brig*- 

ade^ 460 

Edward L. Thomas quickly checked their move 
And Gregg ■> made brilliant fight, his last to prove. 
Then Taliaferro- and Early pressed the foe 
Who "Stonewall's" might* had long since learned 

to know. 
But Lawton's brave brigade too far pushed on, 465 
Eed in the dashing charge by Atkinson, 
And, when that gallant leader wounded fell^ 
'Twas Clement Evans^ then, who led them well. 
But ere their place once more in line they gain. 
The valiant Captain Eawton, on the plain, 470 

With other heroes in the thickest strife 
Gave for the cause beloved his noble life. 
Toward the Southern left and Union right 
Was of that fateful day the fiercest fight. 
How bravely Sumner's Grand Division § came 475 
And Hooker's also 'gainst the sheet of flame 
That 'blazed from Southern guns on Marye's Hill 
Or from their rifles all the air did fill 
With fell destruction's fierce devouring breath 
And swept the lines of blue with wounds and 

death. 480 

W^here Kershaw, Ransom, Cobb * the stone wall 

held 
Six times they charged and were six times 

repelled, 
Though Cobb with hfe-blood for his triumph paid 
And Colonel Cook of Ransom's brave brigade 
Was borne ofif wounded sore, while hundreds 

more 485 

Died on the field or scars of battle bore. 
The nearest to the Southern lines that came 



tBrigadier-General Maxey Gregg, of South Carolina, who 
was mortally wounded. Edward L. Thomas was one of 
Georgia's best brigadier-generals. 

t Pronounced To?^■^'^r. From Taliaferro's and Early's di- 
visions Lawton's, Trimble's and Smith's brigades made 
a successful charge. 

§Burnside had divided his army into three grand divisions, 
each consisting of two corps, each corps having its proper 
complement of divisions and brigades. 

*The three brigades of T. R. R. Cobb, Kershaw and Ran- 
som held the stone wall against six desperate charges. 



66 The Strife of Brothers. 

Were men who lustre shed on Erin's namej 

Where'er the sons of Erin had their home, 

To that State's call did they with ardor come ; 490 

And none more valiant followed stripes or bars. 

Or died for either 'neath its shining stars. 

How changed the scene of that sad winter night 

From the proud pageant of the morning's light ! 

When on the morn of that tremendous da}^ 495 

The sun's bright beams had rolled the mists away. 

Tee's valiant men, who stood on Marye's Hill, 

Felt all their souls with admiration thrill, 

As grandest panorama met their gaze 

That e'er was seen through all the long war's 

days, 500 

As o'er the snow, like burnished silver bright. 
Moved lines of blue, whence steel flashed back the 

light. 
Now pitying darkness covered all the plain 
And with its sable mantle hid the slain. 
Gone was the Fed'ral army's hope so sweet, 505 

As their proud banners drooped in dire defeat. 
Next morn most piteous sounds smote on the ear. 
Where Fed'ral wounded la)^ the stone wall near. 
Then Richard Kirkland,''' brave young soldier 

boy. 
Begged from his chief that he might have the 

joy, _ 510 

Which comes to him who answers mercv's call. 
Though in so doing he should give his all. 
Sharpshooters of the Union host were near. 
And for the gallant lad his chief did fear 
And w^ould not give consent. Still plead the lad. 515 
Till Kershaw, with a look both proud and sad. 
Said: "Go, my boy, and God defend your life!" 
Gladly he went, his heart with pity rife. 
After few shots foes saw his. mission there, 
And then with shouts admiring rent the air. 520 
Mcl^aws,"^ the leader of the brigades three 
Who held the wall of stone for Robert Lee, 



tMeagher's (pronounced Marr's) Irish brigade of the 
Union army left its dead within twenty-five paces of the 
stone wall . 

*A South Carolina sergeant of Kershaw's brigade. 

tMajor-General Lafayette McLaws, of Georgia. 



The Strife of Brothers. 67 

Reporting gallant deeds of his command, 
I'ells of two Geoi-gia boys of that brave band., 
Young Johnnie Clark and William Crumley- too, 525 
Both beardless youths, but ever bold and true. 
From boyhood to old age the South's brave sons 
Sought post of danger, near the flashing guns. 
O'er the now famous Rappahannock's stream 
Burnside retired, confirming our fond dream, 530 
That the fair starry cross should ever wave 
O'er the proud South, which heroes died to save. 

From Mississippi and from Tennessee 
Came also hope that we should soon be free. 
To Fredericksburg '^ far Chickasaw ' replied, 535 
Where gallant Tennessee with Georgia vied. 
And Louisiana matched them in the fight 
Won under Stephen Lee for home and right. 
The dashing Forrest raided in Grant's rear 
And made each Fed'ral outpost quake with fear, 540 
AVhile Holly Springs H was seized by brave, Van 

Dorn, 
Who captured stores and men one early morn 
And, thwarting Grant's whole plan by this bold 

feat. 
Compelled that stubborn leader to retreat. 

tBoth couriers. 

*The Union army at Fredericksburg, Va., numbered on 
the morning of the battle (B^c. 13, 1862) one hundred and 
thirteen thousand men and lost in its vain assaults twelve 
thousand, six hundred and fifty-three. The Confederate 
army, at and near Fredericksburg on that day, numbered 
seventy-five thousand men, of whom less than twenty thou- 
sand men w^ere engaged in the battle and suffered a total 
loss of five thousand, three hundred and seventy-seven men. 

See Derry's "Story of the Confederate States," pages 211- 
216; also Official Eecords. 

t The Union army, under Major-General William T. Sher- 
man, at the attack upon Chickasaw Bluff, near Yicksburg, 
Miss., numbered thirty-three thousand, of whom half were 
engaged, losing in their bloody repulse one thousand, seven 
hundred and seventy-six in all. The total strength of the 
Confederates, at and near Vicksburg at that time, was twen- 
ty-five thousand. Of this number, only three thousand 
were at Chickasaw Bluff and gained a decisive victory over 
three times their number, losing two hundred and seven 
men, less than one-eighth of that suffered by the Federals. 

11 At Holly Springs, Van Dorn captured two thousand men 
and destroyed Grant's depot of supplies. 



68 The Strife of Brothers. 

From Murfreesboro Southern shouts arose 545 

As closed the year with onset 'gainst their foes. 
There Cleburne's flag of blue and full-orbed moon 
Triumphant waved from dawn till long past noon. 
Withers, McCown and Cheatham''' matched his 

pace 
And drove the Fed'rals, who in desp'rate case 550 
Made brave defense this brilliant charge to stay^ 
Which with resistless movement swept away 
Davis and Negley with their soldiers stout 
And drove back Sheridan amid the rout. 
When on the foU'wing morn did Rosecrans yield 555 
The one point stoutly held upon that held, 
Bragg, deeming now his victory complete, 
To Richmond sent this message glad and sweet : 
''A happy New Year God to us hath given !" 
Won was the field for which he'd stoutly striven, 560 
Where Polk and Hardee led each valiant wing. 
That well had fought complete success to bring. 
But disappointment came another day, 
When Breckinridge was worsted in the fray, 
That dashing charge, where Roger Hanson fell, 565 
As had James Rains ' 'mid shout of triumph's 

swell. 
The South marks high upon her roll of fajne 
Of each of these brave chiefs the .honored name. 
Hearing of reinforcements to his foes. 
The thought of new attack Bragg now foregoes, 570 
At Murfreesboro waits another day, 
Then with his army moves some miles away, 
And choosing winter-quarters, pitched his camp, 
While trophies rich that bore the Union stamp 
And many thousand captives he could boast, 575 
In battle taken from the Fed'ral host. 
Rosecrans, who'd marched from Nashville to 

attack 



§ Major-Creneral Patrick R. Cleburne, of the Confederate 
army, had for his division a blue flag with a full moon of 
white in the center. 

* Major-Generals John P. McCown and Benjamin Franklin 
Cheatham were from Tennessee, and Jones M. Withers 
from Alabama. 

tBrigadier General James E. Rains, of Tennessee, was 
killed in the full tide of Confederate triumph, December 31, 
1862, and Brigadier-General Roger W. Hanson, of Kentucky, 
was killed in Breckinridge's charge, January 2, 1863. 



The Strife of Brothers. 69 

And hoped in rout to drive Bragg's army back, 

Had been himself attacked and roughly used, 

While his brave army had been so much bruised, 580 

That it was forced to lie up for repairs 

And wait six months, while new move it prepares. 

Yet, when the Fed'ral chief found Bragg had 

gone, 
He telegraphed good news to Washington ; 
"God to our arms the victory hath given !" =^ 585 

Each chief, you see, ascribed success to Heaven. 
Pity that men, who thus in God believe, 
Find not some way this sad world to relieve 
By sett'ling diff'rences through law of love, 
That dwells in souls who Ve learned of Him 
above. SQO 

The Southern soldiers to their word are true 
And faithful stand, as they who wore the blue, 
To the new Union on coercion built, 

*The armies of Bragg and Kirby Smith had in the last 
month of the summer and the first of the fall of 1862 gained 
two decisive victories in Kentucky, one at Richmond where 
Smith almost annihilated -the opposing force ; the other at 
Mumfordsville where Bragg captured a fort and its garrison 
of four thousand men, while General Carter L. Stephenson 
by flank movements recaptured Cumberland Gap from the 
Union general, George W. Morgan, without a battle. Gen- 
eral Buell, having retreated to Louisville, received rein- 
forcements and marched against Bragg, who seeing that the 
odds were too heavy began to fall back, but at Perryville 
with sixteen thousand men fell upon the Federal force 
of twenty-seven thousand and drove one wing for a mile, 
capturing fifteen cannon, several colors and five hundred 
prisoners. There came to Buell that evening twenty- 
seven thousand fresh troops. Bragg by this battle had 
secured his junction with Kirby Smith. He then re- 
treated at leisure from Kentucky with a rich spoil of 
thirty-five cannon, sixteen thousand small arms, millions of 
pounds of ammunition, one thousand, and seven hundred 
mules, three hundred wagons loaded with military stores, 
and two thousand horses. Though Bragg and Smith by 
reason of the heavy odds against them had failed to hold 
Kentucky, they had recaptured Cumberland Gap and re- 
deemed nearly all of Middle Tennessee and all of North 
Alabama which Price's indecisive battle at luka and his 
and Van Corn's failure at Corinth had nevertheless left in 
Confederate possession. 

At Murfreesboro, to which point Rosecrans had ad- 
vanced from Nashville for the purpose of attacking Bragg 
and driving him out of Middle Tennessee, he had himself 
been attacked at dayhght of December 31, 1862. The 



70 The Strife of Brothers. 

Though 'gainst such building their best blood was 

spilt. 
Yet one thing we can never understand 595 

And that is how within this Christian land 
Those can be found, whose bosoms swell with 

pride 
For what they should with shame their faces 

hide ; 
Not that the slave they freed, but how 'twas done. 
O saddest day it was beneath the sun 600 

When sister States were sundered in fierce strife, 
In which their best and bravest yielded life ! 
If holding Africans as slaves was wrong, 
Then to the North did equal guilt belong ; 
For from New England sailed the seamen bold^ 605 
Who to the South these negroes' sires had sold. 
Full many a fortune in New England made 
Beginning had in this disgraceful trade. 
Against it first Virginia passed strong law^s 
And Georgia was the first to form a clause 610 

Which in her constitution made it crime 
To bring in slaves from any foreign clime. 

Confederates drove the Union right wing four miles, carry- 
ing every point bat one, from w^hich Rosecrans retired 
that night to a stronger position. 

On the afternoon of January 2, 1863, Breckinridge with 
his division made a dashing but unsuccessful assault upon 
a part of Rosecrans' line. The next day Bragg heard that 
Rosecrans was being reinforced from Nashville and on the 
morning of January 4, 1863, retired and .went into winter 
quarters at Tullahoma. Rosecrans remained at Murfrees- 
boro for six months before making another advance. 

In the battle of Murfreesboro the Union army numbered 
forty-three thousand and four hundred men, and lost thir- 
teen thousand, two hundred and forty-nine, of whom three 
thousand, seven hundred and seventeen were reported cap- 
tured. The Confederate army numbered thirty-seven 
thousand, seven hundred and twelve, and lost ten thousand, 
two hundred and sixty-six, of whom one thousand, and 
twenty-seven wounded, were left in Murfreesboro and fell 
into the hands of the enemy. The Confederates captured 
and carried off thirty cannon, six thousand small arms, 
and, including men captured and paroled by their cavalry 
in the rear of the Federal army, took six thousand prisoners 
during the campaign. The cavalry of General Joseph 
Wheeler and General Wharton captured and destroyed more 
than a million dollars worth of military stores and eight 
hundred wagons in their brilliant circuit of the Union army. 

See Derry's " Story of the Confederate States." 



The Strife of Brothers. 7^ 

Then ten 3'ears later Fed'ral law forbade 

And scarcely then New England ceased this trade. 

Upon the compact which tJie States had made 615 

The right of property in slaves was staid/'' _ 

If Northern men no more this pact could bide, 

Why should they then their Southern brethren 

chide 
For claiming right to separate in peace, 
That thus they might from strife and discord 

cease? 620 

Did they e'er say : "If you will free the slave, 
We pledge the government the South to save 
From any peril that may thus arise, 
And right and justice we do so much prize, 
That for whate'er of value thus is lost ^^ 625 

We'll vote from public funds to pay the cost?" 
They said not thus ; but often did declare 
Their purpose fixed a cordon to prepare, 
That, tight'ning round the South, would ruin quite 
This kind of property, by law of might. 630 

If thev had right the laws to nullify 
And thus could break the compact, tell us why 
The Southern States could not depart in peace 
And from unequal Union seek release ? 
In Congress by abuse and sneer and threat 635 

Their leaders ever tried the South to fret. 
So, when those men had gained the reins of power 
Of doom, it seemed, had come the very hour. 
The South's secession then they made their plea 
For right to set the 'Rebels' " negroes free. 640 

But surelv they did ev'ry loss make good 
To Southern men who by the Union stood? 
If this they ever did, we know not when ; 
Such act of justice comes not in our ken. 
And did through weary years of cruel strife 645 
The slave make desolate his master's life 

*The Constitution of the United States recognized prop- 
erty in slaves and provided for the return of run-away 
slaves to their masters. As a compromise between the JNew 
England merchants and the planters of South Carolina and 
Georgia the African slave trade was not to be stopped by 
the government of the United States until 1808. The other 
Southern and the Middle States protested against this pro- 
vision, but all ratified it. Virginia first forbade it and 
Georgia did so in 1798. 



"]2 The Strife of Brothers. 

By slaughter of the helpless ones at home? 
"Such ills upon the South would surely come,': 
So"^ Sumner and Ben Wade and others said : 
"And burning homes the slaves would heap with 

dead, 650 

If e'er in bloody war occasion rose, 
When fields were ravaged by invading foes 
Or mighty armies thundered at our gates ; 
And on the South would justly fall such fates." 
Not so did they^ but by their masters stood 655 

And helped them their defense to long make good 
By working fields and raising food supplies, 
In which the strength of ev'ry army lies. 
The master's home they guarded true and well 
And safely did its honored inmates dwell. 660 

The Southern lady walked where'er she would, 
As safe as if a queen 'mid guards she stood. 
Her life and honor ev'ry slave did prize. 
As if a goddess moved before his eyes. 
The mistress' children were the "mammy's'''" 

pride, 665 

Who for these cherished treasures would have 

died. 
And men with masters went to war's dread field 
Where faithful service they did ever yield. 
Were master sick or wounded^ none more true 
Stood anxious there to do what man could do ; 670 
And, if by battle or disease he died, 
Then homeward with the dead the servant hied 
To lay him with his kindred down to rest^ 
To sweetly sleep on Mother State's fond breast. 
Hundreds of slaves to war with masters went. 675 ^ 
And to serve well their ev'ry effort bent. 
Full many a chance these had to go away. 
But faithful served until the war's last day. 
By Lincoln's proclamation "^ were not turned. 
And to prove false to master ever spurned. 680 

* Charles Sumner was a noted Eepubhcan of Massachu- 
setts, and Ben "VVade was a leader of the same party in Ohio. 

fThe Southern children were taught to call the old negro 
women "mammy." 

t- These thoughts were suggested by the fact that on Janu- 
ary 1, 1863, President Lincoln issued his Emancipation 
proclamation. 



The Strife of Brothers. 73 

When to defame the South foul slander tries, 
This record all their calumnies belies. 

For yet awhile rolled on the South's full tide, 
As though with her would vict'ry aye abide. 
Magruder thrilled the land with stirring news^ 685 
Which into ev'ry breast did hope infuse. 
With two frail boats by Texas horsemen manned, 
With Leon Smith a daring feat he planned ; 
Then with success assailed a Fed'ral fleet 
While land force made their victory complete. 690 
For Galveston recovered was their prize * 
And captured Harriet Lane made glad their eyes, 
While wreckage of the Westfield strewed the wave 
And Union fleet sped off itself to save. 
Magruder's name was now on ev'ry tongue 695 

And praise of his brave men was proudly sung. 
The Hatteras next to Semmes " her colors struck, 
And O. M. Watkins ^ had the brave man's luck, 
When, with a heart resolved to do or die, 
He made two Fed'ral vessels seaward fly, 700 

Pursued and captured both with richest store. 
And guns and prisoners as trophies bore. 
Such brilliant triumphs keep us well at ease, 
When Fed'ral arms one prize of vict'ry seize. 
And make us hope for luck another day, 705 

And in our disappointment calmty say 
At news of loss at Post of Arkansas: '' 
"Well, such must sometimes be the fate of war." 
Our steadfast hope is prompt to cheer us still, 
As tidings of success our bosoms thrill, 710 

*The great victory of Major-General John B. Magruder 
gained by his army and an improvised fleet of two frail 
steamboats under Captain Leon Smith, January 1,1863, 
not only recovered Galveston and broke for a time the block- 
ade of the Texan coast, but saved Texas from invasion. 

t Commodore Eaphael Semmes, a Marylander by birth, but 
a citizen of Alabama, captured the Hatteras January 11, 

1863. 

X O. M. Watkins with two Confederate gunboats chased 
out to sea and captured a Federal gunboat and schooner 
with thirteen cannon, one hundred and twenty-nine prison- 
ers and one million dollars' worth of military supplies, Jan- 
uary 21, 1863, near Sabine Pass. 

II At this post General John McClernand with thirty thou- 
sand men and Porter's fleet captured five thousand Confed- 
erates and seventeen cannon and large quantities of supplies. 



74 ^^^ic Strife of Brothers. 

While vict'ry wreathes fair Charleston's brow with 

fame 
Like that which makes renowned proud Rich- 
mond's name. 
The gallant men in army and in fleet, 
Who did for her defense in concert meet, 
Were cheered by former triumphs on the land^, 715 
When at Secessionville * successful stand 
And fortune kind at Pocotaligo "i" 
Had hurled in flight their strong and gallant foe. 
A skillful strategem gave Ripley fame 
And linked with his Lieutenant Yates's name^ 720 
W^hat time the Isaac Smith ^ with crew and guns 
Hauled down her flag to Carolina's sons. 
In council Beauregard and Ingrah'm meet 
And launch a bolt against the Union fleet, 
When the Palmetto State ere break of day 725 

With the Chicora chased the ships away, 
As Rutledge sealed the Mercidita's fate 
And Tucker captive made the Keystone State. 1 1 
But now for Charleston's capture proudly meet 
Nine ironclads, a new and mighty fleet, 730 

Whose onset, thought the foe, no fort could stand. 
But valiant men for home and native land 
Add strength invincible to each strong fort 
That, like grim sentinel, guards Charleston's port. 
How grandly come the iron ships in line ! 735 

Rarely hath eye beheld a scene so fine. 
Weehawken and Passaic skim the wave, 
Patapsco and Montauk sail on as brave. 
Next comes the flag ship, stout New Ironsides, 
Upon whose deck DuPont, the leader, rides. 740 

The Catskill and Nantucket next appear. 
With Keokuk and Nahant steaming near. 
The "Batt'ry," Charleston's lovely promenade, 
Was thronged with crowds who eager stood and 
sad, 

*Fought June 16, 1862, 

■!• October 22, 1862. 

X Captured by the Confederates, January. 1863. 

II This brilliant victory by which the Union fleet was for a 
time dispersed, occurred January 31st, 1863. The Mercidita 
was sunk. The Keystone State, after lowering her flag in 
token of surrender, when the Chicora had passed her in pur- 
suit of the other ships, raised her colors again and escaped. 



The Strife of Brothers. 75 

And from each housetop that afforded view 745 

What anxious eyes peered o'er the waters blue ! 
With palpitating hearts they breathed a prayer 
For loved ones in the forts just over there, 
Who, as they gaze toward the dear old lown, 
Stand for a moment with their heads bowed down 750 
And lift their hearts in prayer to God above, 
To guard and save the homes they so much love. 
And. as they see from hostile fleet now float 
That flag of which so proudly Key once wrote, 
Wlien he beheld it wave o'er patriot arms 755 

That saved fair Baltimore from war's alarms, 
How many think of that sweet prayer for those 
Who stand 'twixt home and fierce invading foes ; 
''O thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand 
Between their loved homes and war's desolation !" 760 
The thought new ardor to each hero gives 
"Who'll do his duty^ if he dies or lives. 
The brave men on the fleet those words forget, 
But in their ears this line is ringing yel. : 
"The power that hath made and preserved us a 

nation." 765 

^ach side fought bravely for its view oi right; 
But. long ere fell the dark'ning shades of night, 
The fleet from its disastrous fight withdrew. 
And Yict'ry crowned the South's defenders true.* 
Proud Fort McAllister on Georgia's coast 770 

Could over ironclads three triumphs boast, 
With few men lost on sep'rate days of strife, 
Though 'mongst these Major GaUie gave his life. 
Turn now, my Muse, to Old Virginia's shore. 
And tell of Lee's and Jackson's deeds once more. 775 
AVith what proud thoughts thy name, O Chance'- 

lorsville, 
T)oth always ev'r}^ Southern bosom thrill ! 
Theie Hooker, whom his men styled '"Fighting 

Joe," 
Beheld his pride and confidence brought low. 
When he had crossed the Rappahannock's stream, 780 
Of certain triumph did he fondly dream ; 
On I.ee's front Sedgwick, on his flank four corps, 
While Stoneman to the rear his horsemen pours. 

^The battle of Charleston Harbor occurred April 7th, I860. 



7^ The Strife of Brothers. 

Some cause had Hooker for his haughty boast 

That he had now entrapped the Southern host, 785 

Who would most certainly be forced to fly, 

Or, if 'gainst whelming odds to stand they try, 

Must with destruction dire most surely meet. ' 

From which no help can save, however fleet. 

But power was given to Jackson and to Lee 790 

From all these toils to bring their army free ; 

Not, as Joe Hooker thought, by shameful flight, 

But by a wondrous and successful fight. 

Though Longstreet, Hood and Pickett were 

awav,* 
Lee did not doubt, nor even stand at bay. 795 

Barksdale's brigade he left on Marye's Hill^ 
To hold that post of former glory still; 
And Pendleton's artill'ry there remained. 
By Early's brave division well sustained, 
'Gainst Sedgwick's odds they were to watch or 

fight, 80a 

And hold them back from falling on Lee's right, 
As that undaunted chief for Hooker went^ 
With mind on gallant onset wholly bent. 
Rans. Wright's ^ brigade could ne'er that night 

forget ; 
How the downpouring rain the ground had wet, 805 
And how the mud and darkness blocked their way, 
As toiling on they marched till light of day, 
Which marked beginning of the noble fight 
That they then made for home and country's right. 
And thousands more could like experience tell. 810 
Whom equal hardships on this tramp befell, 
As Anderson,^' McLaws and Jackson bold 
Marched to great deeds, which thrill wherever told. 
As valiant men of Sykes they backward bore. 
Hooker sent Couch with many thousands more, 815 
To whom Hancock and Warren rendered aid. 
As Lee's advancing lines fierce onset made. 
Hooker astounded thought : 'What ! Lee not 

run ? 
Some unexpected thing must have been done. 

"'"In southern Virginia and northern North Carolina. 

t Brigadier-General Ambrose Ransom Wright of Georgia. 

t Major-General R. H. Anderson, of Sooth Carolina, and 
Major-General LaFayette McLaws, of Georgia. 



The Strife of Brothers. 77 

To him new thousands must have surely come^ 820 

Of whom my forces equal not the sum." 

Alarmed he left his vantage rising- ground, 

Which Lee with frowning cannon quickly crowned. 

The unexpected thing was Lee's attack^ 

Which caused astonished Hooker to fall back. 825 

A Council Lee and Jackson held that night, 

And wisely planned that splendid march and fight, 

Of "Stonewall's" deeds the greatest and the last;, 

Eclipsing all our future and his past.' 

All day Lee holds the foe's great odds in cheeky 830 

Who of the threatening ruin little reck. 

When his intended point had Jackson gained, 

He there with Fitzhugh Lee such view obtained, 

As gave assurance that the time had come 

To form his lines and then with might strike home. 835 

Rodes in the front and Colston next he placed. 

And then for A. P. Hill the third line traced. 

One skirmish line had Blackford at its head, 

And chosen riflemen Ed. Willis led : 

Brave men these latter were from Doles' Brigade, 840 

By whom the op'ning battle should be made. 

"Rodes, are you ready?" was the eager word 

Which down the line from Jackson's lips was 

heard. 
^'Yes, sir!" said Rodes, quite eager for the fray. 
"Go forward, then !" the men heard Jackson say. 845 
A silver bow of promise spanned the sky. 
As Jackson promptly bade war's thunders fly. 
From right to left the stirring bugles sound 
And tramp of charging columns shakes the 

ground. 
Louder and louder swells the battle-cry ; 850 

The widely-echoing forest makes reply. 
The frighted game from out their coverts spring 
And fly at sound of war's discordant ring. 
Then Howard's corps, all taken by surprise. 
Is panic-stricken and in terror flies, 855 

While Stuart's horse artill'ry pours forth flame 
From six brig"ht guns which often had won fame 
LTnder the lead of youth with major's rank. 

tThe battle of Ohancellorsville was the most remarkable 
of all the wonderful victories of the Army of Northern 
Virginia. 



78 Tlic Strife of Brothers. 

"You ought to have a Pehiam on each flank," 

At Fredericksburg had Lee to Jackson said. 860 

Alas ! That bo}^ artill'rist now was dead ! 

Short while before near Rappahannock's stream 

A fatal ball had closed his young life's dream. 

His men and guns, howe'er, were in this fra}\ 

And for their chief dread vengeance took this day. 865 

In front with infantry they kept their pace 

Abreast with foremost in the headlong chase. 

At Dowdall's they by Carter were relieved^ 

And — wonderful it is to be believed — 

They'd marched and fought for eight and twenty 

liours^ 870 

Nor man nor horse had food to aid their powers/*' 
No wonder Jackson praised them then and there. 
Who thus for native land could all things bear. 
Jackson's brave men pressed on till close of day. 
And naught availed their onward rush to stay. 875 

Line after line they drove in utter rout 
And onward pushed with cheer and joyous shout. 
At dark was Jackson wounded through mistake 
By men who would have died for his dear sake. 
His last command, which showed his care pro- 
found^ 880 
Was, ''Gen'ral Pender, you must hold yoitr 

ground." 
Jeb. Stuart Jackson's men the next day led, 
Conspicuous by dark plume above his head,. 
Singing while riding with the charging lines. 
And waving blade from which the sunlight shines : 885 
''Old Joe Hooker, will you get out of the Wilder- 
ness ? 
Out of the Wilderness, out of the AVilderness?" 
McLaws and Anderson afforded aid ; 
Heth, Posey, Doles and Pender battle made, 
And Wofford, Semmes and Wright proud honors 

share," 890 

*Only these six cannon of Stuart's horse artillery were 
used in Jackson's charging column. But Jackson had Breath- 
ed's and McGregor's batteries following on the pike and 
keeping pace with the front line ; also Moorman's guns. The 
artillery battalions of Lt -Ool. Thos. H. Carter and Crutch 
field were a short distance in the rear. 

tTogether they made large captures of prisoners. 



The Strife of Brothers. 79 

While shouts exultant ring through all the air. 

As from the Wilderness the lines emerge 

And after fleeing foe impetuous surge; 

And now, as in their midst loved Lee appears, 

One long, unbroken shout his presence cheers, 895 

While e'en the wounded give their aid to swell 

The mighty, soul-inspiring Southern yell. 

Each triumph though must tempered be with grief 

For many a noble man and gallant chief. 

Paxton,"^ who led the old "Stonewall Brigade," goo 

Which on that day a brilliant record made, 

In victory's arms with other heroes fell 

And after life's fierce conflict rested well. 

News came to Lee from Wilcox ' on that day, 

How Barksdale to great odds had given way 905 

And that the foe now stood on Marye's Hill, 

Though Early hindered Sedgwick's movement still. 

McLaws was promptly sent Wilcox to aid, 

And they at Salem church an onset made 

That forced the gallant Sedgwick to fall back. 910 

Now adding Anderson Lee makes attack 

And Early on the Fed'ral rear appears, 

Just after Gordon's men with ringing cheers 

Had charging swept the foe from Marye's Hill, 

While Evans' boys were first the works to fill. 915 

The only Fed'ral chief on that broad field 

Who'd neared success was now compelled to yield. 

Back o'er the Rappahannock Sedgwick went 

And then 'gainst Hooker all Lee's power was bent. 

But Hooker slipped awav on stormy night 920 

And thus his army saved by timely flight. 

With joy and praise each Southern heart was filled 

By triumph o'er such whelming numbers thrilled. 

But into mourning all the joy was turned, 

W^hen saddest tidings through the land were 

learned. 9^5 

For Lee's "Right Arm" ^ from our defense was 

torn. 
And at his bier a nation wept forlorn. 
Our Jackson's soul had crossed the narrow stream, 

*Briejadier-General E. F. Paxton, of Virginia. 
tBrigadier-General Cadmus M. Wilcox promoted to Major- 
General soon after Gettysburg. 

tLee called Jackson his "right arm." 



8o The Strife of Brothers. 

Made bright to him by faith's inspiring beam^ 

And bathed in Hfe eternal's balmy breeze 930 

Found rest beneath the shadow of the trees. "^'^ 

But, though disconsolate our Southland wept, 
Not on past laurels our brave leaders slept.t 
The tide of Southern triumph tow'rd the sky 
Along our eastern border mounted high, 935 

As Stuart hurled the foe at Fleetwood ? back, 
Where Hampton's stout brigade made flank attack 
And the Cobb Legion led by bold Pierce Young 
Did mighty acts as poets e'er have sung, 
And South Carolina's horsemen under Black 940 

For honors just as noble did not lack, 
While Phillips' Legion bore as gallant part, 
And Fitzhugh Lee's Virginians of stout heart 
Equaled the best, as they ne'er failed to do. 
Now higher rolls the tide, as Ewell true 945 

Sweeps through the Valley of the Shenandoah 
And bids his banners proudly Northward soar. 
Now Martinsburg is freed from foes once more 
By Rodes with Daniel, Iverson and Doles, 
And Ramseur and O'Neal, all valiant souls, 950 

While Jenkins with his horsemen gives prompt aid. 
Early and Johnson march resistless made 
And by their unexpected onward rush 
From Winchester did quickly foemen brush. 
As Hays in dashing onset seized a fort 955 

*Jackson's last words were : "Let us cross over the river 
and rest under the shade of the trees." 

fAccording to the official records the Union army in the 
Chancellorsville campaign numbered one hundred and 
thirty-two thousand effective troops. Its losses were one 
thousand, six hundred and six killed, nine thousand, seven 
hundred and sixty-two wounded, five thousand, nine hun- 
dred and nineteen captured or missing — seventeen thou- 
sand, two hundred and eighty-seven. 

The Confederate army numbered a little less than sixty 
thousand. Its losses were one thousand, six hundred and 
forty-nine killed, nine thousand, one hundred and six 
wounded, one thousand, seven hundred and eight captured 
or missing — twelve thousand, four hundred and sixty-three. 

Besides those captured in battle from the Union army 
thousands of wounded fell into the hands of the Confeder- 
ates, who also captured thirteen cannon and twenty thou- 
sand small arms. 

tAlso known as Brandy Station. 



The Strife of Brothers. 8i 

With Smith's and Hoke's brigades in close 

support^ 
And Gordon's men another brave charge led, 
Where, as the foe before their onset fled, 
Captain John Milledge bore a f^ag away ; 
And other trophies of that glorious da}^ ^ 960 

Were won by Edward Johnson's brave command, 
Stewart and Williams prompt to lend a hand, 
James Walker,* with the old Stonewall Brigade, 
And men of Jones to give their timely aid. 
Four thousand Fed'rals then laid down their arms, 965 
While richest prize each valiant Southron charms. 
As rests his gaze on captured guns and stores, 
x\nd Vict'ry's joyous paean skyward soars. 
Nor did the South 's high rolling battle wave 
Cease in its onward rush so strong and brave, 970 

Till it had mounted Gettysburg's steep crest, 
Where fell so many of the Southland's best. 

With these great triumphs of his noble corps 
O'er the Potomac Ewell sweeps once more; 
Then through fair Maryland his legions tramp 975 
And soon in Pennsylvania pitch their camp. 
Johnson and Rodes pressed onward to Carlisle, 
And Early forward marched to York the while. 
This northward move of Ewell's gallant corps 
Filled countless Northern hearts with terrors sore. 980 
The dread of them e'en Philadelphia shakes, 
And far New York with dire forebodings quakes. 
Stores and supplies they gathered as they moved, 
But true to Lee's strict orders ever proved. 
No harm or insult citizens receive, 985 

And, that these troops are foes, can scarce believe. 
The grass-clad hills and fertile valleys smile 
And bask, as though in peace profound, the while 
That farmers safely drive their teams afield 
And peaceful gather nature's bounteous yield. 990 
The cattle all unharmed the pastures graze, 

*=The brigade commanders here named are Junius Daniel, 
Alfred Iverson (son of Senator Iverson of Georgia), George 
Doles, Stephen D, Eamseur, Colonel Edward A. O'Neal, Al- 
bert G. Jenkins (commanding a cavalry brigade), Harry- 
Hays, Wm. Smith, Robert F. Hoke, George H. Steuart, 
Col. J. M. Williams (commanding Nicholl's Brigade) and 
Brigadier-General James A. Walker of Virginia. 



82 The Strife of Brothers. 

And women^ men and children in amaze 
See these grim, war-worn vet'rans tramp along-, 
Sometimes with merry jest or lively song, 
But ever with that mien where one can trace 995 

The courteous manners of a well-bred race. 
Although for vengeance they had many a chance, 
No plundered fields or homes marked their ad- 
vance. 
Virginia's wrongs had vexed their spirits sore 
And on the Georgia coast, short while before, 1000 
The town of Darien by fire destroyed*. 
And citizens by plundering raids annoyed, 
Had given ample cause to vent their rage ; 
Yet Lee's grand orders did their wrath assuage. 
To Wrightsville on the Susquehannah's banks 1005 
Gordon'' advanced with his well-ordered ranks, 
Where bridge by Fed'ral horsemen fired they 

found 
Whose fiames were spreading ruin dire around. 
Their prompt and active aid the Georgians gave 
And helped the citizens their town to save. loio 

From this advance to Gettysburg called back 
They came in time to aid the bold attack, 
Where A. P. Hill with Pender and with Heth 
Was striving hard to win the victor's wreath. 
As Hill's strong battle reached its fiercest 

height, 1015 

Brave Reynolds fell in thickest of the fight; 
And, as this noble leader pressed the plain 
Where of his boys in blue were many slain. 
Early and Rode's fell on their far right wing 
And with a mighty and resistless swing 1020 

Pushed onward o'er the well-contested field 
And forced their stubborn foes the ground to 

yield. 
In vain did gallant Barlow, flag in hand, 
Try with his men to make successful stand ; 
For Gordon hurled his heroes on their flank, 1025 
As, hat in hand, he rode with foremost rank 
On ebon steed, whose proudly arching neck 
In black mane clothed obeyed his rider's beck, 

^On June 11, 1863, a marauding expedition had burned 
the town of Darien on the Georgia coast, 
t Brigadier-General John B. Gordon of Georgia. 



The Strife of Brothers. 83 

As matchless in the charge the chieftain led 

His line of gray that like the lightning sped, 1030 

And, when the gallant Barlow wounded fell, 

Bursting with awful crash and thund'rous yell 

Broke every efifort at resistance down 

While Hill and Ewell swept on through the town. 

Five thousand prisoners with flags and guns 1035 

Crowned this day's triumph of the Southland's 

sons. 
The crest beyond the routed foe now saves, 
While over Gettysburg the blue cross waves. 
Next afternoon Lee tried that crest to scale ; 
The Southrons partly win and partly fail. 1040 

Longstreet smote Sickle's corps with heavy stroke 
'Neath which the foe first wavered and then 

broke, 
And their commander with a desp'rate wound 
Was borne away, as they were yielding ground. 
Hood's stalwart form went down, as on he 

rushed, I045 

But his brave men the foemen backward brushed 
And seized the Little Round Top's wooded base, 
Though frowning batteries upon its face 
Stayed further progress up its rugged side. 
Then with the onward rolling battle-tide 1050 

McLaws pressed up and made a partial gain 
While Anderson his combat urged amain. 
There fell Barksdale with Pender and with 

Semnies, 
In crown of Lee's proud army three bright gems. 
Wilcox and Perry steady forward ^o 1055 

And in fierce combat press upon the foe. 
The men of that grand soldier. Ransom Wright," 
In whose hearts dwell fair pearl of valor bright. 
Cross fire-swept plain to Emmetsburg's turnpike, 
Drive skirmishers and battle-line alike, 1060 

Seize there the guns, then from a strong stone 

wall 
Drive them again and quickly rush o'er all ; 
Next mount the crest of Cemetery Hill 
And gorge bevond with routed foemen fill. 
The key to all'Meade's line they'd bravely w^on 1065 

tBrigadier-GeneralA. R. Wright, of Georgia, afterwards 
major-general. 



84 The Strife of Brothers. 

And with supports the work had then been done ; 
But none appear, and strong converging Hne 
Upon each iiank and one to rear mchne. 
Leaving their prize of twenty guns they turn 
And, though with disappointment all hearts 

burn, 1070 

They hold those lines of thronging foes at bay 
And, spite of heavy loss, cut out their way 
Next Hays' and Hoke's brigades along their front 
Sweep o'er the crest 'mid fiercest battle's brunt. 
Drive back the foe on Cemetery Hill, 1075 

Seize flags and guns and feel the victor's thrill. 
Lacking support they too are forced to yield 
The ground thev've won upon that hard fought 

field. 
Ed. Johnson gained success o'er L'nion right 
And held the captured works throughout the 

night. 1080 

Here far in war's stern front George Steuart led, 
Where sons of Maryland for Dixie bled. 
Enough success the Southrons this day gain 
To make them hope still greater to obtain. 
Advanced positions for their guns they'd won 1085 
And, when the strong work of the day was done, 
The Round Top's bases and the Devil's Den 
With thousands of the wounded Union men 
And pris'ners, flags and cannon they could show. 
Which as the signs of triumph soldiers know. 1090 
From what was done it seemed there was but need 
For winning victory complete indeed, 
That all should act in concert ; and so Lee, 
BeHeving that such concert there could be. 
Resolved to make one gallant effort more 1095 

To win as he had often done before, 
E'en when with odds against him greater far 
He had but lately waged successful war.* 
Oh, for his strong ''Right Arm," our Southland's 

boast, 



* At Ohanoellorsville the Federal army numbered one hun- 
dred and thirty-two thousand, and the Confederate army 
less than sixty thousand. Yet Lee attacked Hooker behind 
strong breastworks and defeated him. winning a victory that 
was miraculous. At Gettysburg the Confederate army num- 
bered nearly eighty thousand, and the Union army actually 
engaged, very little short of one hundred thousand. 



TJic Strife of Brothers. 85 

Once dreaded thunderbolt of that proud host! iioo 

One hundred five and forty guns were massed 

To aid the charging force as on it passed. 

The cannoneers from many a fair State there 

To do war's dreadful work with zeal prepare ; 

The Washington of New Orleans, so true 1105 

And Georgia? Troup, Pulaski, Sumter too, 

While Maryland by good Virginia stands 

And both the Carolinas join their hands 

With Alabama, Mississippi near. 

All silent wait, till signal gun they hear. ttio 

And now th' assaulting column Longstreet forms : 

Pickett with men who'll face the fiercest storms. 

Heth's * strong division under Pettigrew. 

Trimble * with Scales' and Lane's brave boys and 

true, 
And stout brigade of Wilcox, 1 1 ready all, 11 15 

To onward move at stirring bugle-call. 
Now Southern cannon shake the solid ground 
And with their fire search crest and gorge pro- 
found. 
Dismounting guns and scatt'ring ruin vast 
With wounds and death where'er their fierce bolts 

passed. ii2<:> 

Over the ridge behind which they had formed, 
Wliile their artill'ry 'gainst the strong heights 

stormed, 
The charging column by bold Pickett led 
Marched down the slope with firm and gallant 

tread. 
A thrill of admiration through their foes, 1125 

Who stand on yon stern heights, unbidden goes. 
Then, as those valiant heroes upward pressed 
With firm resolve to seize that frowning crest. 
Their fiery throats the Northern cannon ope^ 
\nd sweep the ground along the blood-stained 

slope. 1 1 30 

Though like the leaves in tempest-smitten vale 

^Major-General Henry Heth had been wounded in the 
fighting of the previous day, and Brigadier-General J. John- 
ston Pettigrew commanded the division. 

t Major-General Isaac R. Trimble, whose brigade com- 
manders were Alfred M. Scales and James H. Lane. 

11 Brigadier-General Cadmus M. Wilcox. 



86 The Strife of Brothers. 

The brave men fall beneath that leaden hail^ 

The ranks close up and tow'rd the heights press 

on; 
Heroic men ! from whom all fear has gone. 
The vivid lightnings flash, the thunders roar, 1135 
But 'mid the smoke the South's proud banners 

soar. 
By fair Virginia moves bold Tennessee, 
As on they charge to set the Southland free. 
They reach ^ the crest, they pass the strong stone 

wall 
And seem that moment to have mastered all, 1140 
As through the Fed'ral line they onward keep, 
Retreating foes before their onset sweep, 
Over the captured guns their banners wave 
And shout exultant o'er their triumph brave. 
The Southern battle-wave has reached high tide ! 1 145 
Ah ! will the vict'ry with our arms abide ? 

For all these events, see Derry's "Story of the Confederate 
States" ; also Official Records. 






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The Strife of Brothers. 89 



BOOK IV. 



With Ebb of Tide the South's Fond Hopes Now 

Wane. 

One moment of brief triumph mounted hig-h 
The Southern battle-wave toward the sky ; 
Then threat'ning stands ; then slowly backward 

rolls, 
While bitter disappointment shakes our souls. 
But ne'er did glorious Lee appear so grand, 5 

As when 'mid broken troops he took his stand 
And, with a mien unmoved and steady eye, 
Spake words encouraging as they drew nigh; 
" 'Tis I, my boys, 'tis I who've lost this fight, 
But rally here for home and country's right." 10 

They hear his voice ; with cheers his word obey ; 
They halt and form a counter-charge to stay, 
And' with brave hearts and bold unbroken front • 
They proudly stand to bear new battle's brunt. 
Tho'ueh still in death on vonder blood-stained 

height ., 15 

Lay many comrades dauntless in the fight, 
'Mongst whom their chieftains, Richard Garnett 

brave, 
And Armistead had died the cause to save. 
And gallant Kemper too was wounded sore, 
Three noble chiefs from Pickett's list of four,^^ 20 
Yet, as their ground they firmly stand to hold, 
Lee, seeing now his army's spirit bold, 
Knows that he can upon his men rely 
And beat the foe, if they his lines should try. 
The counter-charge came not; for Fed'ral host 25 

*Viz.: Brigadier-General Richard B. Garnett, Brigadier- 
General Lewis A. Armistead, Brigadier-General James L. 
Kemper and Major-General George E. Pickett, commander 
of the division, who had three brigades in his division, and 
led three divisions in this charge. 



90 The Strife of Brothers. 

In holding those strong heights had done its 

most. 
Only the gallant Farnsworth'' effort made. 
But with his life for daring ride he paid. 
Near thirty hours Lee in Meade's front remained, 
But Northern chieftain from attack refrained. 30 
When Lee retired, Meade followed far behind. 
For caution suited best his careful mind ; 
Andj, when the swollen river blocked Lee's way, 
E'en then Meade kept his army from the fray 
And fortified, lest Lee should make attack 35 

And in confusion drive his forces back. 
On this retreat the wagoners'* brave fight 
Upon the Southern arms shed lustre bright. 
Call Gettysburg a Southern Waterloo? 
He who speaks thus is to the facts untrue. 40 

At Waterloo Napoleon's army fled 
Like men within whose souls all hope was dead, 
And with her fallen chief France prostrate lay 
Nor under him e'er fought another day. 
But Lee's proud army lifted high its crest, 45 

As when of triumph's fruits it reaped the best,* - 

And later, when Lee 'gainst th' invaders led, 

t Brigadier-General Elon J. Farnsworth, a cavalry officer 
of Meade's army. 

X On July 6th. as General Imboden was moving back to the 
Potomac, guarding four thousand Federal prisoners and 
Lee's wagon train, he was informed of the approach of seven V 
thousand Federal cavalry under Buford and Kilpatrick. He 
increased his force of twenty-one thousand, including eight ^ 
cannon of the Washington Artillery battalion of New Or- 
leans, under Major Eshelman, by forming his seven hundred 
wagoners into seven companies under wounded line officers, 
commissaries and quartermasters, and held the enemy in 
check until Stuart and Fitz Lee came up and drove them off. 

*At Gettysburg the Federal army actively engaged num- 
bered ninety-three thousand, and lost three thousand and 
seventy-two killed, fourteen thousand four hundred and 
ninety-seven wounded, and five thousand four hundred and 
thirty-four captured — twenty-three thousand and three. The 
Confederate army numbered seventy thousand and lost two 
thousand five hundred and ninety-two killed, twelve thou- 
sand seven hundred and nine wounded, and five thousarid 
one hundred and fifty captured. 

See Deary's "Story of the Confederate States," published 
by B. F. Johnson Publishing Company, Kichmond, Va. ; 
also Official Records ; also Battles and Leaders of the Civil 
War, page 440 of Vol. III. 



The Strife of Brothers. 91 

Meade in. retreat before his movement fled.' 

For one and twenty months Lee's army o^rand 

Still held its own for home and native land ; 50 

Kept Grant's tremendous odds so long at bay 

And proudly won on many a field the day; 

O'er the Potomac sent again one corps, 

Which vict'ry gained beyond our bounds once 

more 
And bore the starry cross in triumph on 55 

Into the edge of frightened Washington.? 
Till at all other points the cause was lost, 
Lee's armv counting not the fearful cost. 
Guarding the record proud of that grand host, 
In old Virginia firmly held its post. 60 

Though sad to Southern hearts the fates which 

spoil 
The plan to conquer peace on Northern soil, 
Yet from the West the saddest tidings came, 
And Southern hearts grew faint at Vicksburg's 

name. 
On the "Heroic City" * oft in vain ^ 65 

War's fiercest storm had poured its fiery rain. 
At last along fair Louisiana's side 
Grant's army to the southward swiftly hied. 
While past our batteries his transports swept 
And to Grand Gulf in safety onward kept. 70 

Grant at Port Gibson Bowen H first assailed 

t In October, when Lee had sent a large part of his first 
corps, under Longstreet, to the West, and Meade had sent 
to the help of the army defeated at Chickamauga the corps 
of Howard and Hooker, General Lee moved against Meade, 
who fell back steadily before his advance. 

i After Lee had defeated Grant in the Wilderness and at 
Spottsylvania and inflicted a crushing blow at Cold Harbor, 
he sent Early to defeat Hunter's expedition, and Hampton 
to thwart Sheridan, both of whom were successful. Early 
then crossed the Potomac, won a great victory at Monocacy 
and marched into the very suburbs of Washington, givmg 
the whole North such a fright as it experienced at no other 
period of the war. ,, -, ^rc 

See Derry's "Story of the Confederate States" ; also Otti- 

cial Records. 

••■A nickname of Vicksburg. 

II Major-General John S. Bowen, born in Georgia, 

but at this time a citizen of Missouri. He died shortly 
after the siege of Vicksburg from sickness contracted dur- 
ing the siege. 



92 The Strife of Brothers. 

And by o'erwhelming odds at length prevailed,. 
Though long his mighty power our chief with- 
stood 
And our brave boys did all that true men could. 
On that to Southern arms disastrous day, 75, 

As Edward Tracy- stood to bar the way, 
He fell at head of Alabama's sons 
And thence to Georgia borne, 'mid honored ones 
Found in the "Central City" peaceful rest, 
Where sleep so many of fair Macon's best. 80 

At Raymond then Grant made a strong attack, 
Where GreggH and his brave boys were driven 

back. 
Next troops of Pemberton were put to rout, 
But after gallant stand so bold and stout 
That still the Southland's bosom swells with 

pride 85 

For sons at Champion Hill who fought or died. 
Here Tilghman* for his country yielded life 
And Skidmore Harris"" fell in fiercest strife. 
Aroused by cannon's boom from his sick bed 
His brave command to battle Watkins ^'"^ led 90 

And in the fray received a serious wound, 
As did McConnell § holding fast his ground ; < 
And Abda Johnson,^ though this day too ill 
The duties of a colonel to fulfill. 

Was on the field to cheer his brave command, 95 
To battle led by Robert Young's strong hand. 
There Captain Henry Osborne ^ held his boys 
'Mid dangers thick'ning fast in steady poise, 

i Brigadier-General Edward Tracy, a native of 
Georgia, who commanded troops from Alabama. 

11 Brigadier-General John Gregg, commanding troops of 
Tennessee and Texas. 

* Brigadier-General Lloyd Tilghman, of Maryland, com- 
manding troops of Mississippi. 

t Colonel of the Forty-third Georgia. 

* *E. P. Watkins, colonel of the Fifty-sixth Georgia. 

t J. T. McConnell, colonel of the Thirty-ninth Georgia. 

If Colonel of the Fortieth Georgia, of which regiment 
Robert M. Young was lieutenant-colonel. 

° Captain Henry Prentiss Osborne, brother-in-law of the 
author, a native of Milledgeville, Ga., and a resident of 
Augusta Ga , where he died a few days after reaching home- 
a paroled prisoner from Vicksburg. 



The Strife of Brothers. 93 

And to his skill and valor on this field 

Unstinted praise did Gen'ral Gumming yield. 100 

Though less than twenty-one, as gallant knight 

As ever belted sword to 'fend the right, 

Through the long seige 'mid hardships manifold, 

Though sorely ill, with spirit true and bold 

He kept his post until the end had come ; 105 

Then sank to rest amid the loved at home. 

To him Augusta highest honors paid, 

When in her breast this cherished son she laid. 

The host which had been beaten in detail 

And with divided bands could not prevail, no 

When massed in one, the erstwhile victors meets 

And gives Grant in succession two defeats.* 

But mighty fleet and army hem them roimd 

And a relieving force is nowhere found. 

Ah! where was now the good ship Arkansas 115 
That once had waged 'gainst odds successful war ? 
Why comes she not again the town to save ? 
Long months before she'd sunk beneath the wave. 
When with disabled engines sent afloat' 
With not a soul to man the gallant boat, 120 

Whose shotted guns were fired by rising flame. 
She found a death most worthy of her fame. 
As drifting tow'rd the foe her cannons boom 
And with their rolling thunders threaten doom, 

*0n the 19th day of May, 1863, only three days after the 
defeat of the Confederates at Champion Hill, and two days 
after the rout of a part of their force at the Big Black, Gen- 
eral Grant assaulted the Confederates in front of Vicksburg 
and was repulsed. On May 22, with all his forces up and 
ably led by Sherman, McClernand and McPherson, Grant 
made another vigorous assault and met with a very bloody 
repulse. 

t Captain Isaac Brown, already mentioned in the second 
book of this poem for his gallant feat of running the gaunt- 
let of a large federal fleet, was sick at the time when General 
Van Dorn insisted upon sending the Arkansas to assist the 
Confederates under Breckinridge in an attack on Baton 
Kouge. Captain Brown protested against sending the Ar- 
kansas upon any enterprise until her machinery could be re- 
paired. She was sent, however, under Lieutenant J. K. 
Stevens, who, when her engines gave out, moored her to the 
shore. Finding that the Union fleet was about to attack the 
Arkansas in her disabled condition ,he had all the guns loaded, 
sent the crew ashore, set the ship on fire and made his escape. 
The ship floated toward the enemy, the flames firing her guns 
until she was destroyed by the explosion of her magazine. 



94 T^h^ Strife of Brothers. 

While proud her banners wave o'er gallant fight 125 
Which without crew she makes for Southern 

right. 
Of wat'ry grave the brave ship little recks^ 
So long as hostile foot ne'er treads her decks. 
Grant pressed the siege against the gallant town 
Where many a noble man and chief went down. 130 
Missouri sadly wept for Martin Green" 
And her dead sons who near his side were seen. 
And Arkansas joined in her bitter grief 
For valiant sons who died to bring relief 
To the brave people, who their perils share 135 

And all the horrors of the dread seige dared. 
How dull to danger human hearts can be 
When battle's furious storm they daily see ! 
Outside the doors of bomb-proofs 'neath the 

ground, , 
Women and children recreation found, I40' 

Watching the bursting shells high up in air 
'Mid the bombardment's perilous red glare ; 
And, when in war's fierce tempest lulls occurred, 
Forth to make visits^ from their bomb-proofs 

stirred. 
Sallies at times from the beleaguered line 145 

Broke the dull round of mine and counter-mine. 
Bold Tennessee and Georgia side by side 
In deeds of valor with each other vied, 
As Guyton"^ charged along Hall's Ferry road, 
Or in bold reconnoisance Curtis ^ showed 150 

That foemen also need to be alert, 
If from their lines quick dashes they'd avert ; 
And the brave Texans under Thomas WaulU 
Performed great deeds that won the praise of all. 

* Brigadier-General Martin D. Green, commanding Mis- 
souri and Arkansas troops. 

tLieutenant-Colonel C. S. Guyton, of the Fifty-seventh 
Georgia, who, in this sally, captured three positions held 
by the enemy. 

t Colonel William E. Curtis, of the Forty-first Georgia, 
made a sudden dash, capturing one hundred and seven pris- 
oners. 

11 Thomas AVall, colonel of the Texas Legion, promoted to- 
brigadier-general . 



The Strife of Brothers. 95 

Forney and Bowen, Smith and Stevenson^^' 155 

Led on to exploits brave as e'er were done ; 
Moore, Hebert, Cockrell, Dockery and Vaughn 
Shoup, Harris, Baldwin cheered their soldiers on 
And Reynolds, Barton, Gumming, Stephen Lee^ 
With ardor fought to keep proud Vicksburg free. 160 
How oft with admiration and surprise 
Were told the vent'rous deeds of George D. Wise, 
Who bore dispatches back and forth at will 
And seemed to bear a life insured 'gainst ill. 
Then, when great need was felt for more gun 

caps, 165 

Lamar Fontaine, escaping all mishaps, 
By fleet and guards at night came floating down 
And moored his friendly log right at the town. 
Then Gaptain Saunders also tried this game 
And with more caps in safety also came. 170 

Next daring courier Walker tried his hand 
And with a fresh supply came safe to land. 
The mighty fleet, without whose timely aid 
Grant says he ne'er the wished-for goal had made. 
Poured daily on fair Vicksburg iron hail, 175 

Yet could not o'er our batteries prevail ; 
For Higgins-^- with brave chiefs and valiant men 
Ne'er failed to hurl defiance back again. 
But now gaunt Famine laid his heavy hand 
With iron grip on that devoted band, 180 

Which ever without rest both night and day 
In battle line behind the trenches lay. 
Why came not help on which they had relied. 
In hope of which to hold that post they'd tried ? 
With half his men unfitted for the field 185 

* Major-Generals commanding divisions in Pemberton's 
army: John H. Forney, of Alabama; John S. Bowen, of 
Missouri ; Martin L. Smith, a New Yorker by birth, but a 
citizen of Florida, and Carter L. Stevenson, of Virginia. 

t This is a list of the brigadier-generals commanding under 
the above-named major-generals: John C. Moore and Louis 
Hebert, of Forney's division ; Francis M. Cockrell and J. P. 
Dockery, of Bowen's division ; J. C. Vaughn, Francis A. 
Shoup, John V. Harris and W. E. Baldwin, of Smith's divi- 
sion ; A. W. Eeynolds, Seth M. Barton, Alfred Camming 
and Stephen D. Lee, of Stevenson's division. 

X Colonel (afterwards brigadier-general) Edward Higgins, 
commanding river batteries. 



9^ The Strife of Brothers. 

In sorrow Pemberton was forced to yield 

The post he could no longer hope to save; 

And terms most generous the victor gave. 

Grant bade his men no taunting words to say 

To valiant foes^ who'd barred so long their way, 190 

Three cheers for Vicksburg's brave defenders rose 

From ranks of one division of their foes. 

But, ah ! those cheers soothe not the sorrow 

deep 
For the brave town, which they had failed to 

keep. 
McPherson by kind deeds approval gained 195 

And honor in one Southern home obtained 
For noble conduct tow'rd a gallant youth, 
Who dared to say in words of manly truth : 
"Oh, in my home I do so long to be, 
That I may there from sickness soon be free 200 
And come again to wage 'gainst you the fight 
For home and dear ones and our Southland's 

right." 
To him then kindly spoke the knightly foe ; 
"And, Captain, thither you shall quickly go." 
Mounting him then upon a well-groomed steed 205 
And carefully supplying ev'ry need, 
He sent him whither he could find a train 
That bore him back to loved ones' arms again. 
From sickness there the hero found release ; 
For soon he slept in God's eternal peace.* 210 

Port Hudson, next, to Vicksburg echo gave 
Where, after triumphs won by Southrons brave, 
To heavy odds those heroes had to yield. 
But valor once again did brave men shield 
From ev'ry taunt, while Banks with courtly 

grace 215 

Bade Gardiner keep his sword in its place, 
Which exploits great entitled him to wear 
As badge of the brave deeds enacted there. 
Chivalric honors, which the brave thus give 
To valiant foes, are worthy aye to live. 220 

But cruel wars should never once begin, 
Nor would they, if love dwelt all hearts within. 

*The young officer so chivalrously treated by General Mc- 
Pherson was Captain Henry P. Osborne, of Augusta, Ga., 
who died a few days after reaching home. 



The Strife of Brothers. 97 

^God speed the day of universal peace 
When discords shall from earth forever cease ; 
When fabled golden age shall come again 225 

And Love Divine, not Chivalry, shall reign. 

Elsewhere retreat now followed on retreat, 
Till on the Georgia line the forces meet, 
Which holding East and Middle Tennessee, 
-Had kept the vital points till this time free. 230 

But now through Chattanooga's open gate* 
Invasion's tide, big with impending fate, 
'Threatened at once the South to overflow 
And lay her prostrate form in ruin low. 
But in Virginia Eee held fast the land, 235 

While to the West he stretched a helping hand. 
And Chickamauga's woods and stream resound 
'With charging Southern hosts that shake the 

ground. 
For on th' invading army Bragg had turned 
With chiefs and men whose souls within them 

burned 240 

To win in battle all that had been lost, 
Whate'er the peril or whate'er the cost. 
When at the close of hard-contested day 
'The Southern lines had onward pushed their way, 
It was resolved to press with zeal the fight, 245 

A triumph full to win for Southern right. 
'From the clear sky the autumn moon looked 

down 
'On ripening fields or forests sere and brown 
And shone so calmly and serenely fair. 
Where strife of brothers lately rent the air 250 

And where with morning's light would new begin 
'Of war's dread horrors all the awful din. 
All nature now in stillness peaceful slept. 
"Not so the pickets, who their vigils kept, 
As they held watch and ward o'er slumb'ring 

hosts, 255 

"Or soldiers late arrived who took their posts, 
'Or chiefs on either side, who must prepare 
For the fierce struggle that was brewing there. 

*0n September 8, 1863, the Federal army took possession 
of Chattanooga and began to move southward into Cleorgia ; 
but this new invasion was completely thwarted for a while 
'hj the great Confederate victory at Chickamauga, 



98 The Strife of Brothers-. 

Round many a weary hero's couch of earth,. 

Where of the smallest comforts there was dearth, 260* 

Hovered sweet dreams of loved ones and of home 

And bade his soul 'mid scenes enchanting roam. 

And in those anxious homes so far away, 

In South or North, so many knelt to pray 

That God would o'er their soldier spread his 

shield, • 265^ 

Whether in camp or on the battle-field. 
Full many, a prayer arose for country's cause, 
But more, that peace would give war's terrors 

pause. 
But thoughts of j>eace from soldiers fled at morn. 
When charge was sounded by the bugle horn. 2yQr 
Bragg placed the gallant Polk"^ on his right wing, 
'Neath whose command from right to left now 

swing 
The corps of Walker and of D. H. Hill, 
While Cheatham's gallant men the next space fill 
To Forrest's horsemen bold. All are prepared 275; 
For exploits valiant as brave men e'er dared. 
Over the left wing Longstreet"^ held' command 
With corps of Hood and Buckner, firm to stand 
Or gallant in the charge, as need might be, 
While on their left there floated" proud and free 480^ 
The flags of Hindman's men and Wheeler's 

knights. 
Ready for weary march or desp'rate fights. 
And batt'ries strong for left and right there stood 
With hearts who'd brave whate'er the stoutest 

could. 
The gallant Rosecrans led the Union host ^ 285: 

On whose left wing George Thomas held his post 
With valiant soldiers 'neath his guiding hand 

^Lieutenant-General Leonidas Polk, whose corps com- 
manders were Major-General William H. T. Walker and' 
Lieutenant-General D. H. Hill. Major-General B. F. Cheat- 
ham and the cavalry of Brigadier-General Nathan Bedford 
Forrest were also under Polk's command on this day. 

t Lieutenant-General James Longstreet. whose corps com- 
manders were Major-Generals John B. Hood and Simon 
Bolivar Buckner, both subsequently lieutenant-generals. 
J^ajor-General Thomas 0. Hindman and the cavalry of 
Brigadier-General Joseph Wheeler also were under Long- 
street. 



The Strife of Brothers. gg 

Ready to dare whate'er their chiefs command ; 
*First Baird's brave boys, R. W. Johnson's then 
With Palmer's next and Joseph Reynold's men. 290 
Negley and Brannan stood upon their right ; 
Next Sheridan and Davis, bold in fight, 
O'er whom McCook was holding chief command. 
While Crittenden took in reserve his stand 
With Wood's and Van Cleve's troops of noble 

fame, 295, 

Who'd won on other fields an honored name. 
Now Hill 'gainst Thomas hurled his valiant corps 
And Breckinridge and Cleburne more and more 
Pressed their assault, while to their help there 

came 
Brave chiefs and men alrady known to fame, 300 
tLiddell and Gist by William Walker led, 
While Cheatham's brave division forged ahead. 
Their heavy pressure drew from Union right 
More and more troops to strengthen Thomas' 

fight. 
Longstreet on Southern left with watchful eye 305 
Saw then in Fed'ral line a gap near by 
And through it hurled brigade upon brigade. 
Which wider and yet wider op'ning made. 
As Bushrod Johnson,* Gregg, McNair and Law 
With Humphreys, Benning, Robertson, Kershaw 310 
Swept Sheridan's division from the field 
And also forced in headlong flight to yield 
One brigade of Van Cleve, of Davis, two. 
While thousands of the gallant men hi blue 
Cut off from all escape laid down their arms. 315 
Then was confusion great 'mid dire alarms 

■^The Union generals under Rosecrans were: George H» 
Thomas, Absalom Baird, R. W. Johnson, John M. Palmer 
Joseph J. Reynolds, James S. Negley, John M. Brannan' 
Bhilip Sheridan, Jeff C Davis, Alexander McCook, Thomas 
L. Crittenden, Thomas J. Wood and Horatio P. Van Cleve, 

t St. John R. Liddell and S. R. Gist. 

t These eight brigades were driven right through th© 
Union line, which caused the defeat of the Union army 
Their generals were: Bushrod Johnson, a native of Ohio 
but. a citizen of Tennessee ; John C. Gregg, of Texas ' 
Evander McNair, of Arkansas; E. M. Law, of Alabama- 
Benj. G. Humphreys, of Mississipni ; Henry L. Benning, of 
Georgia ; Beverly H. Robertson, of Virginia, and J. B. Ker- 
shaw, of South Carolina. 

LofC. 



lOO The StiHfe of Brothers. 

Of routed troops. In one tremendous swing 

From left to right of Longstreet's charging wing 

Batt'ries on batteries were overrun, 

And^ when the gaUant work was fully done, 320 

Rosecrans' headquarters were the victor's prize^ 

And with his routed troops that leader flies, 

Refuge in Chattanooga's works to find 

Both for the fleeing and for those behind, 

Who under Thomas strive to hold till night 325 

And, helped by Gordon Granger, bravely fight. 

As that grand charge he led, which swept away 

The routed Union right and won the day. 

The gallant Hood, most sorely wounded fell. 

But, as his senses reeled, with mighty swell 330 

Pealed on his gladdened ear the Southern yell. 

'Gainst Thomas now and Granger Bragg's right 

wing 
Did all its might and all its prowess bring. 
Of Union strength the larger portion still 
Fought hard to hold its post at Snodgrass Hill. 335 
At length, when both Bragg's wings were 

brought to bear 
On the brave Fed'rals holding stoutly there, 
"The Rock of Chickamauga" * yielded ground. 
As evening shades were gath'ring thick around. 
Then, as Bragg's wings together charging came 340 
And scaled the heights from that day dear to 

Fame, 
There rose one mighty soul-inspiring shout, 
That echoed through the forests round about, 
Which Southern men who fought upon. that field 
Could ne'er forget, till they to death should yield. 345 
In the fierce charges of that awful day 
Thousands of brave men entered Death's dark 

way: 
James Deshlert, Alabama's noble son, 

*Major-General George H. Thomas, a Virginian who fought 
on the Union side, on account of his desperate fight this day 
was called the "Eock of Chickamauga." 

tThe Confederate brigade commanders killed on this day 
were Brigadier-General James Deshler of Cleburne's divi- 
sion, Colonel Peyton H. Colquitt of Walker's division, Brig- 
adier-General Benjamin Hardin Helm of Breckinridge's di- 
vision, and Brigadier-General Preston Smith of Cheatham's 
division. 



The Strife of Brothers. loi 

And Helm^ who for Kentucky honors won, 

And Peyton Colquitt, for whom Georgia wept^, 350 

And Preston Smithy a name in honor kept 

By gallant Tennessee ; all these chiefs died 

Cherished throughout the South with love and 

pride. 
And for the Union King and Baldwin? fell, 
And Lytle as sweet poet honored well, 355 

And Hegg who died to keep the Nation one 
And make it strongest 'neath the light of sun. 
When many weary years had passed away 
And peace had come again, we hope, to stay, 
The re-united Nation honors grave 360 

To each of these eight chiefs so true and brave, 
Whether he died beneath the Stripes and Stars, 
Or gave his life upholding Stars and Bars.''^ 
And can it be that narrow souls to-day 
To Statuary Hall would bar the way, 365 

When proud Virginia, like her sisters, free. 
Would honor her great son, the peerless Lee ? 
Her mighty triumph fills the South with joy. 
While new alarms her thronging foes annoy ; 
And though from Chickamauga's bloody field 370 
Where vahant Northmen had been forced to yield, 
Not all the fruits were reaped, that should have 

been. 
Yet o'er war's vast expanse great change was 

seen. 
Invading hosts had met a stunning check. 
Of which their pride did lately little reck, 375 

And now in Chattanooga trembling wait, 
Lest on them shall descend sad Vicksburg's fate. 
Thither two corps from Meade as succor came. 
Hooker's and Howard's, each of gallant fame. 
Promptly Lee moved on Meade to make attack 380 

X The Federal brigade commanders killed on this day were 
Colonel Edward A. King of J.J.Reynolds's division, Colonel 
Philemon P. Baldwin of R. W- Johnson's division, Brigadier- 
General William H. Lytle of Sheridan's division, and Colonel 
Hans C. Hegg of Jeff 0. Davis's division. 

*The United States Chick amauga Park Commission, con- 
sisting of Union and Confederate officers, under authority 
of the United States government, marked with similar 
monuments the spot on which each of these eight brigade 
commanders fell. 



I02 The Strife of Brothers. 

And straightway then the Fed'ral chief fell back. 

From Mississippi Sherman quickly hastes 

And Grant for Thomas'" help no moment wastes. 

But, ah ! for Southern arms unlucky day 

That L'ongstreet sent for other work away. 385 

For on Bragg's weakened army Grant now hurled 

A force that seemed as gathered from the world. 

At least so thought the war-worn old Confed;, 

Who, seeing o'er the plain that vast host spread, 

Vowed that he heard what made him queerly feel ; 390 

''Attention, world ! By nations, all right wheel !" 

Although at Mission Ridge Joe Hooker failed, 

Nor over hind'ring obstacles prevailed,''' 

And although Sherman's efforts were in vain, 

Foiled by Pat Cleburne once and then again, 395 

Yet Sheridan redeemed the former flight 

Of his command at Chickamauga's fight. 

As our left-center his and Wood's boys pierce, 

In rapid charge so sudden and sO' fierce. 

That our weak line is forced its ground to yield, 400 

While loud-huzzaing foemen win the field. 

But Cheatham quick and Walthall at the breach 

Hold firm the open road from hostile reach. 

So Hardee held the ground on Bragg's right 

wing, ^ 
Till dark'ning shades of night could succor bring 405 
And thus at Mission Ridge a bulwark proved, 
'Gainst which in vain Grant's strongest columns 

moved. 
With Hardee's right the lion of the day, 
Pat Cleburne, against Sherman barred the way. 
In vain the Northern chief with his own corps 410 
And Howard's also, with the thousands more 
"Whom Jeff. C. Davis led, assailed the line 
Where Stevenson's and Cleburne's men combine 
And with brave hearts so true and bold and stout 
'Gainst fearful odds through all the day hold out. 415 
As Smith's brave Texans firmly keep their post 

tGeneral George H. Thomas had succeeded Eosecrans in 
command of the Union army, now besieged in Chattanooga. 

*The day before the battle of Mission Eidge, Hooker had 
carried the positions on Lookout Mountain, but on the day 
of the fight at the Eidge found it impossible to do the part 
assigned him. 



The Strife of Brothers. 103 

^With Govan's boys, of Arkansas the boast, 
The bold brigade of Alfred Gumming came, 
"Whose deeds of valor oft had won them fame. 
JBut, as they reached this point McGonnell fell, 420 
.A noble leader, loved and honored well. 
.And now at Cleburne's word these valiant men, 
.Arkansans, Texans, Georgians once again 
With zealous aid of Tennessee's stout boys 
"Whose hearts quailed not for battle's shock and 

noise, 4^5 

.In headlong charge swept- onward o'er the field 
.And proved that day the Southland's sword and 

shield. 
But with left-center pierced Bragg can not stay 
'To wait the issue of another day 
J^nd must retire, ere morning's beams appear. 430 
The dauntless Cleburne guarded well the rear ; 
How well, let Ringgold's gallant ba:ttle tell, 
Where foemen's might-and pride his heroes quell. 
;.South of this town at gap in Taylor's Ridge, 
Where road o'er winding stream has many a 

bridge, 435 

Tn shelter of a grove his Texans stand 
With troops of Alabama close at hand. , 

The men of Arkansas in four short lines 
Where screen of thicket all its boughs entwines 
'To hide from view Goldthwaite's Napoleon guns, 440 
'Wait in grim silence for the Northland's sons. 
Near by stand Mississippians in reserve 
With Tennesseeans strong of heart and nerve. 
Close in their rear is Bragg's great army train 
^Struggling through fords a passage' safe to gain, 445 
Its sole reliance Cleburne's gallant band, 
Who 'gainst pursuing foes determined stand. 
Joe Hooker pressing on with joy and pride 
For his late fight on Lookout's rugged side,* 
"With Osterhaus in front and Geary near, 450 

And Cruft with his division in the rear, 
■Quickly formed line and moved to the attack ; 
;But promptly were they hurled disordered back, 
^Smitten by lightning's flash from Cleburne's line 

*Tn which he captured Lookout Mountain, the day before 
tthe battle of Missionary Kidge. 



I04 The Strife of Brothers. 

With which his cannons' thund'rous roars com- 
bine. ^ 45S 
Again the gallant Fed'rals press the fight 
In dashing charge 'gainst center, left and right. 
But dire defeat with such great losses came 
As made them long remember Ringgold's name. 
Ohio's noble Creighton dying fell 460:: 
And Crane, whose soldiers love his deeds to tell. 
Twelve leaders of Ohio's Seventh brave 
Out of thirteen the battle's red sod lave, 
And, with the loss of nearly half its men, 
This gallant regiment recoils again. 465, 
Ohio's Seventy-sixth like fate befell 
With loss of colors, though defended well. 
Missouri's Twenty-ninth, on Fed'ral side, 
Lost flag and prisoners, as in full tide 
Taylor's brave Texans swept them down the hill ; 470 
And Fame's loud trum^ the battle echoes fill, 
As thrilling tale through all the Southland ran 
Of valiant deeds of heroes of Govan, 
Granbury, Lowrey and brave Lucius Polk, 
Who on that day the forest's stillness woke 475, 
With victors' shouts, as 'mid their cannons' roar 
,And rifles' crack their flags triumphant soar. 
Bragg's trains by this brave fight were grandly 

saved. 
And for the valor, which such odds had braved. 
To Cleburne and his heroes Congress gave 48o;- 

Thanks of the land, which they had fought to 

save. 
Coupled Avith news of Bragg's most dire defeat 
On Mission Ridge, and Longstreet's sad retreat 
From Knoxville's bloody field, where all in vain 
His heroes charged again and then againr, 485; 

Came story of the fight at Ringgold town. 
Which shed o'er Cleburne^s flag such grand re- 
nown 
And gave a silver lining to the cloud 
That did with blackness all the South enshroud. 
Americans are ever stout of heart 4903' 

And true to cause with which they've taken part.. 
So Southrons from disasters rarii'ed" soon. 
And Hope reviving smiled like day in June.. 
For proud Virginia Lee holds fTrmly still 



The Strife of Brothers. 105 

And Charleston's victories our bosoms .thrill, 495 

While Southern arms on Texas coast had won 
'Gainst all that Fed'ral hosts or fleet had done. 

One gallant feat of arms already told 
On Sabme Pass sheds lustre manifold. 
Another brilliant deed, my Muse, now smg S^^ 

And to Dick Dowling meed befitting brmg. 
One autumn day in eighteen sixty-three 
Came gallant fleet, so proud and fair to see. 
With gunboats four and transports full of men 
To bring back Texas to the fold again. 505- 

Only a six-gun fort stood in their way. 
But heroes manned it who were there to stay, 
Forty-four sons of Erin, strong and bold 
To dare such deed as Fame hath rarely told. 
Against the odds they quailed not in dismay 510 

And to give welcome warm made no delay. 
Of fearful iron hail for near two hours 
From Fed'ral boats there poured incessant 

showers. 
But all in vain ! Brave men behind the guns 
Foiled all the fury of the North's strong sons. 51S 
Minus two gunboats and of each the crew, 
A fleet of twenty sail dismayed withdrew. 
The red-hot greeting which Dick Dowling gave 
Made them see forts with myriads strong and 

brave 
And so the fleet with its five thousand fled 52c 

From forty-four stout hearts with steady head. 
Whene'er this tale of Sabine Pass was told, 
It made the wav'ring and faint-hearted bold. 
A small affair it was, but of great weight. 
In that it stopped th' invasion of a State ; 525. 

And thus Fort Grigsby won an honored name 
Upon the glorious South's proud roll of fame, 
And the brave Davis Guards, who fought so well, 
Will in her grand Valhalla ever dwell. 

A Southern soldier, gallant deeds I sing ^ 53*^ 

That may to patriot hearts some pleasure brmg. 
Yet for all parties it were better far. 
Had there ne'er been that fratricidal war. 
With all my soul I love the paths of peace, 
And pray that strife forevermore may cease. 53S 

God's chosen plan is Christ's sweet law of love 



JO 6 The Strife of Brothers. 

That reigns among the shining ranks above ; 

But if the wrath of man the tempest raise, 

God rides upon the storm and guides its ways, 

'Giving to each now vic'tries, now defeats, 540 

And unto each His sovereign verdict metes. 

Then they who trust Him own His equal sway 

And His decision loyally obey. 

Arbitrament of arms will never cease 

Till so-called Christian States choose law of 

peace, 545 

Nor deem that they alone beneath the sun 
Do all the righteousness that e'er is done; 
But tol'rance have for others' point of view 
And freely give to them what is their due. 
Hence, while the patriot's sacrifice we praise, 550 
Let's work and pray for nobler, better days. 





Gkorgia Confede;rate Monument at Chickamauga. 

Park. 

To the lasting memory of her sons 

Who fought on this field — 

To those who fought and lived, and those who fought andl 

died ; 

Those who gave much, and those who gave all — 

Georgia 

Erects this monument. 



The Strife of Brothers. 109 



BOOK V. 



Again the Tide of Southern Triumph Flows. 

Slowly the days of winter passed away 

And hardships lingered, as if' there to stay. 

The men of either side showed patience great 

To bear privations or the frowns of Fate. 

But Union soldiers had the fuU supplies 5 

In which the strength of ev'ry army hes, 

And for each man by them in battle lost 

Came new recruits to pay war's fearful cost. 

Sublime th' endurance and the courage true 

That marked the men who wore the Union blue. 10 

But what of those who looked on thinning ranks 

And saw no way to fill those fatal blanks, 

Whom scanty food and clothing tested sore. 

But who with courage grand all trials bore.^ 

What though their sky with gloom was overcast? 15 

They hoped the dark appearance would not last. 

And thought of those heroic days of old 

And patriot sires of 'seventy-six so bold, 

Who 'mid like scenes of Valley Forge stood fast 

And glorious independence won at last. 20 

"Not yet have we their depth of sorrow known, 

And yet on them at last glad triumph shone." 

Thus feeling, they made light of ev'ry care, 

For home and country ready all to dare. 

When roads were filled with mud and poured the 

rain, . ^ 

In half pathetic and half merry strain 
Thus would some Reb invoke the power of song. 
To chase dull care and help his friends along : 
"Oh, come into my shanty; 
My rations are scanty, 3" 

Corn bread, it is the order of the day ; 
This young Reb is sighing. 
His wet feet he's drying, - : . 



no The Strife of Brothers. ~ : 

And wonders if this cruel war will pay. 
Then come rain and fill 
Each sluggish creek and rill, 
Thy steady patter, patter just now suits ; 
Oh, come, and we'll thank thee 
To keep back the Yankee^ 
Until our ranks are filled up with recruits." 40 
Next, "Mister, here's your mule!" would laughter 

bring 
From those who round a camp-fire stood in ring. 
Then one, who thought of dear girl left behind, 
In sentimental strain relieved his mind : 

"A hundred months have passed, Lorena, 45. 

Since last I held thy hand in mine." 
With loud encores they called him out again. 
Whereat he charmed them all with this refrain : 
"Oh, the lone starry hours give me, love, 
When still is the beautiful night." 50' 

Now from the throng one just as true and brave 
Sang in soft accents more subdued and grave, 

"When this cruel war is over." 
Then, filled with thoughts of loved ones far away. 
All voices are attuned to this sweet lay : 55: 

"Do they miss me at home? Do they miss me? 

'Twould be an assurance most dear 
To know that this moment some loved one 
. Were saying, 'I wish he were here' !" 
Then, while they all thus sang of home and love, 60^ 
Came holy thoughts to lift their souls above 
To Him, whose grace, when trials sore oppressed. 
Could 'mid the gloom to trusting hearts give rest ; 
And then the sacred song each bosom thrilled. 
As lofty strains the echoing forest filled : 6$ 

"Other refuge have I none. 

Hangs my helpless soul on thee; 
Leave, ah, leave me not alone. 
Still support and comfort me." 
From thousand throats the full notes rise and 

swell, 70* 

And then, while rev'rent thoughts in each heart 

dwell. 
Some pious man from that throng gathered there 
Stands in the midst and offers up a prayer. 
On 'Rocky Face and on the Rapidan, 



The Strife of Brothers. iit 

As days and nights their wonted circuit ran, 75 

Troubles and cares were oft allayed by joys, 
And nought could damp the spirits of our boys. 
When howled 'mid tempest fierce the winter's blast 
Their cheerfulness did raging storm outlast 
And, when snow clothed the vales and hills in 

white, 80^ 

In line they formed to wage the mimic fight. 
What fun there was, when one clear winter day 
Hoke led his "Tar Heels" in a gallant fray 
'Gainst Evans' Georgians and took their camp ! 
But quickly they were forced from thence to tramp 85, 
When rallying Georgians struck their front and 

flanks 
And drove them back with badly routed ranks. 
Taking as^ pris'ners Hoke and ladies fair 
Who'd gone with him to view the combat there. 
Exchange of prisoners released them soon 90- 

And Evans led his boys that afternoon 
Three miles to charge the Carolina camp, 
When on both sides proud Valor set his stamp. 
The Georgians meet success and then defeat 
As "Tar Heels" drive them back in swift retreat. 95; 

Round Dalton also charging columns clash 
And through the air swift-flying snowballs flash. 
Harmless such combats, where loud laughter rose 
From ranks of victors and of vanquished foes. 
Those, who in such dark hours found fun and joy, 100- 
Had courage in their hearts without alloy. 
With steadfast souls, in sad or cheerful mood, 
The ragged ranks firm by their colors stood ; 
To winter's blasts or battle's storms inured, 
'Gainst adverse fate they to the end endured. 105: 

From birth of time until the world's last day 
How hard 'twill be to match the men in gray ! 

As winter days were hasting tow'rd the spring, 
Glad tidings through the South on jo3^ful wing 
Told how the starry cross in triumph waved iio^ 

In "Land of Flowers" by brilliant battle saved. 
Back from Olustee's field the foemen fled 
Before our boys by gallant chieftains led. 
When Finnegan and Colquitt laurels gained 
And George P. Harrison renown obtained. 115; 

J. W. Evans, William Crawford too. 



TI2 The Strife of Brothers. 

B-onaud and ^^'heaton with brave lads and true, 
Guerard and Duncan Clinch all shared the fight. 
AMiere brave James Barrow fell for home and 

right. 
AA'ith Butler. A\'aller. Cannon all in front. 120 

AMiere valiant heroes face the battle's brunt. 
Mobley with daring men seized Fed'ral guns. 
And honors Lofton gained through Georgia's 

sons. 
A gallant battle 'twas on open ground 
And worthy foemen each brave army found. 125 

Once ammunition failed the Southern boys. 
But still they held their ground with steady poise, 
Inspired by words and deeds of youthful aide, 
As. riding down the line with flag displayed, 
Hugh Colquitt bids them wait for fresh supplies. 130 
The van thus waiting hostile power denes. 
Blount, hasting up supplies, from horse is shot ; 
Clark's steed falls dead, though rider suiters not. 
Lieutenant Dancey near his chief was slain 
And patriot blood of many dyed the plain. 135 

AMiere Holland. Combs and Hill and Johnson fell. 



Note. — Brigadier-General Finegan commanded the sub- 
department of Florida. Brigadier-General Alfred Colquitt 
•commanded the forces on the field and Colonel (afterwards 
Brigadier-GeneraP George P. Harrison was next in coui- 
mand. The officers here named were Colonel John W. 
Bvans. Sixty-fourth Georgia. Captain Wm. P. Crawford, com- 
manding Twenty-eighth "Georgia: Major A. Bonaud, com- 
manding a battalion of artillery acting as infantry: Capt. 
J. F. Wheaton of the Chatham Artillery: Capt. E. L. 
Guerard, brigadier-quartermaster acting as staff officer; 
Lieutenant R. J. Butler. Thirty-second Georgia; Lieutenant 
P. A. Waller, ; Capt. H. A. Cannon. First Georgia 

Regulars : Capt, S. D. Mobley. Thirty-second Georgia: Colo- 
nel J. T. Lofton, of Georgia, and Colonel Duncan L. Clinch, 
-of the Fourth Georgia Cavalry. Colonel Clinch was 
severely wounded. 

Note. — The other officers mentioned are: Lieutenant 
Hugh Colquitt, aide to his brother, the general : Lieutenant 
George M. Blount, acting adjutant-general, shot while hur- 
rying up fresh supplies of ammunition : Lieutenant Horace 
P. Clark, whose horse was killed under him : Lieutenant R. 
T. Dancev. Thirty-second Georgia, a staff officer killed at 
the side of Colonel George P. Harrison; Lieutenant W. W. 
Holland. Twenty-eighth Georgia: Lieutenant W. H. Combs, 
Sixth Georgia; Lieutenant Thomas J. Hill, Sixth Florida, 
and Adjutant ^\m. H. Johnson. Nineteenth Georgia. 



TJie Strife of Brothers . 113 

As sank the sun, rose loud triumphant yell 
While Georgia's sons and Florida's brave boys 
Hailed the proud Southern cross with those stern 

joys 
That hide from warring hosts the woes of strife, 140 
Who in their zeal reck not of death or life. 
Next Okalona * Southern bosoms thrilled, 
Where Forrest's blade his foes with terror filled. 
Then sweeping forward on the wings of Fame 
Rang through the land that dashing leader's 

name, I45 

And where that "Wizard of the Saddle" led 
The South rejoiced and routed foemen fled. 
Brice's Cross Roads * and Tishamingo Creek 
Come fresh to mind when men of Forrest speak. 
Fair Louisiana too her quota gave 150 

Of joyful news that helped our hopes to save, 
]^Iansfield and Pleasant Hill th' invaders foiled 
And Banks there found his schemes completely 

spoiled, 
\\''hile Taylor's ' star shone brightly as of yore 

iThe defeat of Sherman's cavalry at Okalona caused that 
general to abandon his expedition against Mobile early in 
1864. 

*The battle of Brice's Cross Roads or Tishamingo Creek, 
near Guntown, Mississippi, was the most famous of Forrest's 
many victories. 

tLieutenant-General Richard Taylor, who had distin- 
guished himself under Jackson in the Shenandoah Valley 
in 1S62, was born in Kentucky and became a citizen of 
Louisiana. He commanded the Confederates in these two 
battles, and the generals under him were Brigadier-Gen- 
erals Arthur P. Bagley, born in Alabama, a citizen and 
soldier of Texas; Major-General Thomas Green, born in 
Virginia, a citizen and ?oldier of Texas ; Major-General 
Camille A.J. M. Polignac, a French soldier in the service 
of the Confederate States ; Brigadier-General Horace Ran- 
dall, born in Tennessee, a commander of Texas troops; 
Brigadier-General James P. Major, born in Missouri, a 
commander of Missouri and Texas troops ; Brigadier-Gen- 
eral John G. Walker, of Missouri ; Brigadier-General W. R. 
Scurry, of Texas ; Brigadier-General Hamilton P. Bee, born 
in South Carolina, a citizen and soldier of Texas; Major- 
General Thomas J. Churchill, born in Kentucky, a citizen 
and soldier of Arkansas ; Brigadier-General Alfred Moutqn, 
born in Louisiana and a soldier of that State; Brigadier- 
General Thomas N. Waul, born in South Carolina, a citizen 
and soldier of Texas. 



114 The Strife of Brothers. 

On glory's fields in far-famed Shenandoah, 155 

And exploits great were done as oft are seen 
By Bagby, Randal, Polignac and Green 
And Major also, each a chieftain grand 
Who heroes led to war for native land ; 
While Walker, Scurry, Bee, Churchill and Waul 160 
Helped win the day made sad by Mouton's fall. 
Next northward Kirby Smith his columns led 
And vict'ry gained where heroes toiled and bled. 
Now in Missouri and in Arkansas 
Were battles won in swelling tide of war 165 

And Fame the deeds of Price and Shelby told. 
Of dashing Marmaduke and Cabell bold.* 
The distant East responded to the West 
In efforts brave by brilliant triumphs blest, 
Wlien with the Albemarle Commander Cooke '*' 17a 
Helped Hoke,^ who from the Fed'rals Plymouth 

took, 
And Dahlgren's H dire defeat assurance gave 
Which made each Southron's heart beat strong 

and brave. 
News of success filled ev'ry swelling breeze, 
And Hope our triumph sure already sees. 175 

With courage high in days of early May 
Two Southern armies stood up for the fray, 
One with Joe Johnston, one with Robert Lee, 
Daring all odds their South beloved to free. 
They saw that desp'rate task before them lay, 180- 
Yet hopeful waited for the battle day. 
To swell their ranks came men from other posts ; 
For strongest hope of South were these two hosts. 
With them was one who on his wedding day 
From his young bride so fair had gone away 185 

* General Edmund Kirby Smith was a native of Florida 
and a soldier from that State ; Major-Gen eral Sterling Price, 
born in Virginia, was a citizen and soldier of Missouri, as 
was also Brigadier-General Joseph O. Shelby, born in Ken- 
tucky ; Major-General John S. Marmaduke. born in Mis- 
souri, and a soldier of that State ; Brigadier-General William 
L. Cabell, a Virginian, commanding Texas and Arkansas 
troops, a citizen of Texas. 

t Captain James W. Cooke, of the Confederate navy. 

i Major-General Robert F, Hoke, of North Carolina. 

II Colonel XJlric Dahlgren, defeated and slain in a raid 
against Richmond. 



The Strife of Brothers. 115 

In month of August eighteen sixty-two^ 

With heart inspired by love of country true, 

Going again to danger and to toil 

After year's service on Virginia's soil. 

Soon had that bride so brave been sorely tried, 190 

For, as her bridegroom toiled up rugged side 

Of mountain steep in Eastern Tennessee, 

With frame from recent illness not quite free, 

Nor equal yet to effort of this kind 

And falling hence at ev'ry step behind, 195 

Bushwhackers sprang upon him unaware 

And bore him off unto their mountain lair. 

Into despair the news plunged all at home^ 

Who fearful waited lest worse tidings come. 

They dreaded tender mercies of the men 200 

From out whose hands few captives came again. 

Friends, who their dire forebodings could not hide. 

Increased the torture of the fond 3^oung bride, 

Who overheard them say, ''He must be dead," 

And from her soul all hope had nearly fled. 205 

To calm the fears of mother and young wife 

And give to his own hope new lease of life, 

The father to the front now sped awa)^. 

Where cheering tidings came to him one day 

That bade his fainting soul again revive. 210 

Yet hope and fear within him still did strive, 

Till, as one noon he sat in troubled mood. 

Before him one like apparition stood 

And to his gladdened ear the silence broke : 

''Father !" Surprised up sprang the sire and 

spoke: 215 

"As angel's face is yours to me, my son !" 
And clasped him in his arms. His mission done, 
He wired glad news to anxious ones at home. 
But the good tidings somehow failed to come 
And gloomy fears those sad hearts still oppressed, 220 
Nor could their troubled minds from care find rest. 
While thus perturbed, one morn at sudden sound 
The young wife saw what made her glad heart 

bound : 
With father came her husband through the gate 
Sent home to loving arms by kindly fate. 225 

Wlien soon with health renewed he sought his 

post, 



ii6 The Strife of Brothers. 

God still o'er many seemed to bless him most. 
For his command in short while sent by home 
Was there delayed for further word to come. 
Now six glad weeks speed by on rapid wing 230 

Before the wires their marching orders bring. 
After year's service on the Georgia coast 
His orders bear him to Joe Johnston's host, 
Who with stout hearts in lines round Dalton stand, 
Resolved to do or die for native land. 235 

Once more kind Providence had blessed his eyes 
With sight of those whom most his heart did 

prize, 
Father and mother and brave-hearted wife 
And infant boy, sweet bud of human life. 
But how felt they, when called again to part 240 

'Mid sad forebodings to each loving heart ? 
Resolved was each all duties to perform, 
'Mid cares of home or in the battle's storm. 
They trusted still with steadfast faith and love 
And through war's clouds looked up to God 

above. 245 

But on the Georgia coast malaria's blight 
Had seized him with an iron grip so tight 
That it was hard to break ; and sharp attack 
Caused surgeons now to send him promptly back 
And place in hopital, that he might there 250 

With strength renewed for hard campaign prepare. 
Quick to his side with infant sped his wife 
Whose love alway was bright star of his life. 
This so unlooked-for meeting gave new joy, 
Though thought of early parting brought alloy. 255 
Ye who. dwell safely in these days of peace, 
That to our land have given sweet release. 
Can never know the mingled joy and pain 
Of those who only met to part again, 
Nor how for all, the greatest and the least, 260 

The doubtful future haunted ev'ry feast. 
In a few. days the sharp attack was o'er. 
And to the front the soldier went once more. 
From that same point two trains each day would 

start, 
Whose times for leaving were short while apart ; 265 
The eastward-bound sped to their home its way, 
The westward train bore soldiers to the fray. 



1-4 
> 
o 

W 

o 

pi 
> 

50 




Ii8 The Strife of Brothers. 

The power of words can hardly justice do, 
Where young hearts loved^ yet were to duty true. 
With kiss, in which aU pure emotions blent, 270 

And trusting God, once more apart thev went ; 
On eastward train the soldier's child and wife, 
On westward he returned to battle's strife. 

Now, first, my Muse, the wondrous exploits tell 
Of those who in Fame's hall shall ever dwell ; 275 

Lee and his paladins so truly grand. 
With soldiers proud to die for native land. 
With 'minished numbers and small hope for more 
Against invasion's tide they stoutly bore 
And 'gainst resources boundless bravely set 2S0 

The scanty means remaining to them yet, 
Parried strong blows that rained without a pause 
And sought no omen but their country's cause. 
Their glory through the ages is secure 
And story of their deeds will aye endure. 285 

When of Thermopylae the tale is told, 
'Tis of Leonidas, the Spartan bold^ 
And his immortal few proud Fame doth boast 
And not of Xerxes and his mighty host; 
And so, when men the tale of Richmond tell, 290 

Their highest throbs of admiration swell 
For those who fought to keep the Southland free. 
The noble men of peerless Robert Lee. 
With twofold odds Grant crossed the Rapidan, 
But Warren soon on Ewell's vanguard ran. 295 

Then Sedgwick quickly came to Warren's aid, 
But on him A. P. Hill fierce onset made 
And Hancock,* who'd for Spottsylvania moved, 
Made quick return, since Lee too mighty proved 
For all the Fed'ral strength upon that field 300 

And to their fiercest efforts did not yield. 
'Mid tangled undergrowth and forest dense 
Lee's lines by gallant charge or stout defense 
Hurled back their foes, till darkest shades of night 

■*"0f the officers here named the following were serving 
in the army of Grant: Major-Generals Gouverneur K. 
Warren, John Sedgwick and Winfield S. Hancock. The offi- 
cers here named serving in Lee's army were : Lieutenant- 
Generals Richard S. Ewell and Ambrose Powell Hill, both of 
Virginia. Ewell was born at Georgetown, District of Co- 
lumbia. 



The Strife of Brothers. 119 

Stilled all the tumult of the desp'rate fight. 305 

Hancock next early dawn swept Wilcox * back 

And with resistless might pressed his attack, 

Till Poague's artillery his onset stayed 

And Longtreet's corps its banners proud displayed, 

As with their well-closed ranks they pushed their 

way, _ 310 

Like rolling billow, which no force could stay. 
As Gregg "'" leads Arkansas' and Texas' sons 
Past Lee upon his horse amid the guns. 
With ringing shouts that all the forest fill. 
They cheer "Marse Robert" with a hearty will. 315 
But when to take the lead he forward spurred, 
Protesting cries from ev'ry throat were heard ; 
*'Lee to the rear! We will not forward go 
Unless Lee stay. Then we will charge the foe 
And drive them back, as we've ne'er failed to do." 320 
Past him they swept and to their pledge were true ; 
For strength to keep their word was promptly lent. 
As with them in the headlong charge there went 
With Field * the men of Benning II and of Law,*^ 
And Bryan, Wofi'ord, Humphreys with Kershaw, 325 
While Davis, Anderson, Mahone the might§ 
Of their brave soldiers added to the fight. 
Thus Longstreet launched our blow on Hancock's 

men, 
And to the Brock road rolled them back again. 
While Jenkins'i^ troops he brought to press the 

game, 330 

Surcease of battle in this quarter came ; 
For Longstreet wounded fell, and near his side 

* Major-General Cadmos M. Wilcox, of North Carolina. 

t Brigadier-General John C. Gregg. 

X Major-General Charles W. Field, a Kentuckian. 

li Brigadier-General Henry L. Benning, of Georgia. 

° Brigadier-General, afterwards Major-General, E . M. Law, 
a native of South Carolina, a citizen and soldier of Alabama. 

§ Brigadier-Generals Goode Bryan and William T. Wofford, 
both of Georgia ; Benjamin G. Humphreys of Mississippi ; 
Major-General Joseph B. Kershaw, of South Carolina, and 
Brieadier-Generals Joseph R. Davis of Mississippi (nephew 
of President Davis) ; George T. Anderson, of Georgia, and 
William Mahone, of Virginia, soon afterwards promoted to 
Major-General. 

If Brigadier-General Micah Jenkins, of South Carolina. 



,-iao The Strife of Brothers. 

The g^allant leader, Micah Jenkins, died. 

Just as the sun was sinking in the west, 

Bre evening shades had put the day to rest, 335 

Another charge th' impetuous Gordon led 

With Johnson and with Evans ^" at the head 

Of North Carolinians and Georgians brave, 

O'er whom the starry cross was proud to wave. 

As with dread swoop on Sedgwick's corps they 

fell . 340 

And with keen rifle's flash and rebel yell 
From out their works the startled Fed'rals swept. 
Then seizing many a pris'ner onward kept 
And to their lines in triumph proudly bore 
Two of Grant's chieftains, Shaler and Seymour. 
Since Grant at ev'ry point had been repelled, 345 

He now from battle here his force withheld ; 
Then from the wilderness his army led^ 
For Spottsylvania turned his columns head 
And tried 'twixt Lee and Richmond thus to slip ; 
But found Lee just as hard to fool as whip. 350 

For, as he neared the goal for which he tried, 
Across his path Lee all his power defied. 
Against this line Grant tried his might and skill 
And, when twelve days had passed, was baffled still. 
Though on two sep'rate days he made some gain, 355 
Lee's prompt resen^es struck back with might 

and main. 
And saved each time what had at first seemed 

lost. 
For their brave deeds each host paid fearful cost. 
In brilliant charge upon the tenth of May 
Upton's* brave boys in blue had forced their way 360 
O'er Doles' "i" outnumbered troops and pushed 

them back. 
But for support did Doles not long time lack. 
Near by was Gordon, " ever on th' alert 

+ Brigadier-General Robert D. Johnson, of North Carohna, 
and Colonel Clement A. Evans, of Gisorgia, shortly after- 
wards promoted to brigadier-general. 

* Major-General Emory Upton, of the United States 
army. 

t Brigadier-General George P. Doles, of Georgia. 

II Brigadier-General John B. Gordon, of Georgia, a few 
days later promoted to major-general, and toward the close 
of the war made lieutenant-general. 



The Strife of Brothers. I2.i 

Success to press or peril to avert, 

And now upon the foe, like lightning flash, 365 

His gallant boys he hurled in sudden dash 

And, as o'er Clement Evan's Georgians brave 

And Robert Johnson's Carolinians wave 

Victorious Southern banners floating high, 

Doles' noble boys joined their loud battle-cry, 370 

To swell the note of triumph that arose 

As they won back their line from valiant foes. 

To add persuasion to the boys in blue 

And cause them backward move to still pursue. 

Doles with some volunteers helped man a gun, 375 

Which added heavy weight to war's grim fun. 

But twelfth of May the strongest witness gave 

To valor of the men who died to save 

In either host the cause for which they fought 

And by their deeds Fame's lasting honors bought. 380 

'Twas"'on that day just at the early dawn. 

While rain and mist were making dark the morn, 

When Hancock, "The Superb," by sudden stroke 

O'er Edward Johnson's brave division broke. 

Captured that chief with nearly all his men 385 

And quick for other conquest moved again. 

Now past the salient they forged ahead, 

While to the right and left their flankers spread. 

'I've used up Johnson and for Early go !" 

Was word to Grant from our exultant foe. 390 

Early's division Gordon that day led, 

For of Hill's* corps was Early at the head. 

The fiery Georgian saw the ruin there 

And bade his chiefs for counter-charge prepare, 

Then Robert Johnson's men at once employed, 395 

Who on the front of Hancock were deployed 

As skirmishers to move, in swift advance 

And stay the tide, thus making better chance. 

While Clement Evans struck such sudden blow, 

As brought to halt the onward moving foe. 400 

Now on the front our matchless Lee appeared, 

Took off his hat, as Gordon's line he neared, 

Then took his post with view to lead them in 

*General A. P. Hill was at this time sick and Major-Gen- 
eral Jubal A. Early, shortly afterwards promoted to Lieu- 
tenant-General, commanded his corps, while John B. Gordon 
commanded Early's division. 



122 The Strife of Brothers. 

And with them die or his lost ground to win. 
His purpose Gordon saw and hotly spurred 405 

To his chief's side^ who now strong protest heard : 
"No ! General Lee ! This charge you must not 

lead ; 
Your country needs your life. 'Tis mine indeed 
To head my boys, who'll valiant prove and true 
And for you and their country all things do. 410 
Virginians,'^ Carolinians, Georgians they, 
Who'll die right hef e or win you back the day." 
*Xee to the rear !" the soldiers all reply ; 
'Xee to the rear !" all down the line they cry. 
With Gordon then in headlong charge they swept 415 
And soon to Lee beloved their pledge had kept. 
Now Hancock's men James Lane"^ was holding 

back 
And Rodes sent Ramseur ^ to supply the lack 
'Twixt Gordon and himself, while Perrin H grand 
With Alabamians hastes to lend a hand, 420 

W^ho, as at all times, did their work full well, 
And vict'ry crowned brave Perrin, as he fell, 
W^hile Junius Daniel, North Carolina's son 
Fell leading onward, ere the line was won. 
Through fearful storm of lead next Harris § went 425 
With Mississippians, and McGowan ^ lent 
With South Carolinians most timely aid, 
And all these gallant troops quite certain made 
The winning of the day. The angle, though, 
From outer side was fought for by the foe. 430 

Save this one point the line had all been won ; 
Nor ceased the conflict here with setting sun. 
'Mid this dire tumult, each with painful wound 

*These Virginians were commanded by Brigadier-General 
John Pegram, soon after promoted to major-general. 

tBrigadier-General James H. Lane, of North Carolina. 

1:Major-General Eobert E. Ehodes, born in Virginia, but 
then of Alabama, and Brigadier-General Stephen D. Ram- 
seur, of North Carolina, later major-general. 

II Brigadier-General AbnerM. Perrin, born in South Caro- 
lina, a citizen and soldier of Alabama. 

§Brigadier-General Nathaniel H. Harris, of Mississippi. 

If Brigadier-General Samuel McGowan, of South Carolina. 



Jlie Strife of Brothers. 123 

Hancock and Gibbon-^- left the battle-ground. 

Till long past midnight furious was the light, 435 

Nor each could other drive with utmost might. 

Though right and left again and then again 

Grant pressed assault, his fury was all vain. 

Por R. H. Anderson II foiled Wrighf s ^ attack 

And Earlv's stalwart men drove Burnside back. 440 

The •'Bloody Angle's" tale hath oft been told 

By heroes of both armies stout and bold 

And never until life's remotest day 

Will thev forget the horrors of that fray. 

Near Spottsylvania till eight days were o'er 445 

Grant staid and made one mighty effort more; 

But his brave troops with fearful loss repelled 

Taught him how Robert Lee his firm lines held. 

Again he moved away by his left flank 

Nor halted, till he reached North Anna's bank ; 450 

But found again, when to this point he came. 

That Lee had guessed and blocked once more his 

game. 
Again he tried and then again was foiled, 
And all his plans to vanquish Lee were spoiled. 
Though reinforcements aye kept full his ranks, 455 
While Lee had not enough to fill war's blanks, 
Grant's strongest efforts had at ev'ry point 
In Dixie's armor failed to pierce a joint. 
To interpose 'twixt Richmond and our Lee 
All hope was lost, as Grant was forced to see, 460 

When of his hard-fought "overland campaign," 
In flank moves baffled as on battle plain, 
Cold Harbor marked the dreary, dismal close 
With dire disaster to the Southland's foes. 
Nor was this full extent of his defeat. 4^5 

His other armies at all points to meet 
Our valiant chiefs and soldiers had not failed, 
But o'er all combinations had prevailed. 

tMajor-Generals Winfield S. Hancock and John Gibbon of 
the Union army were both severely wounded in this fight at 
the Bloody Angles. Major-General John Sedgwick, of Grant's 
army, had been killed a few days before. 

IIMajor-General K. H. Anderson, of South Carolina, after- 
wards lieutenant-general. 

°Major-General Horatio Wright who succeeded Sedgwick. 



124 The Strife of Brothers. 

Butler's* advance by Beauregard was sta3^ed, 
Who bottled him defeated and dismayed 470 

And Petersburg and Richmond nobly saved, 
While in the valley young cadets had braved"^ 
With vet'ran comrades perils of the fight 
And shed their patriot blood for country's right. ' 
Flower of Southern youth, from coUeg-e hall - 475 
Where once had dwelt and taught our great 

"Stonewall," 
They marched away with knightly courage bright, 
Those handsome youths, of many a home the light. 
When Breckinridge would hold them in reserve. 
Their claim, that they a better place deserve, 480- 

Obtains permission that they share the front 
With elders trained to breast the battle's brunt. 
And ne'er did boys upon the diamond play 
With lighter, happier spirits than had they. 
When in the headlong charge they forward went 485 
'Gainst routed foes who, in confusion blent. 
Fled from the field, where youthful valor vied 
With that of bearded men in battle tried. 
And, as victorious Southern banners wave. 
None than the Institute's more proud and brave 490 
Floated o'er truer hearts or nobler band 
Than those brave lads, the pride of Dixie's land. 
Ah ! lovely Shenandoah ! how rich thou art 
In all that thrills and stirs the patriot's heart ! 
By many a sacred drop though sanctified, 495 

Distilled from hearts that for the Southland died, 
No holier blood in Freedom's battles shed 
Ever for home and bleeding country plead 
Than that of gen'rous youth that stained thy sod 
And from that crimsoned field appealed to God. 50a 

While Lee and Grant near Spottsylvania fought 
The priceless blood of noble Stuart bought 
Safety for Richmond from the dashing raid 
By Sheridan against that city made. 
Ne'er beat a truer heart, nor knightlier hand 505 
E'er drew a blade for our fair Southern land, 
Which all disconsolate wept at the bier 

^Major-General Benjamin F. Butler, of Massachusetts. 
tThese cadets were commanded by Colonel Scott Ship of 
the Virginia Military Institute. 



The Strife of Brothers. 125 

Of her gay-hearted, Christian cavaher. 

Near the North Anna's stream no nobler hfe 

Went out amid the tumult of the strife, 510 

Than that of Edward Willis loved so well 

By heroes in whose hearts his virtues dwell. 

Bethesda Church saw fall of gallant Doles 

In front with bravest of the noble souls, 

Who marched and dared all things with Robert 

Lee, 515 

To keep their cherished South forever free. 
The valiant Philip Cook then took his place, 
Brave, like his fallen friend, the foe to face. 
He, when by painful wound kept from the field, 
Did not at home to well-earned leisure yield. 520 
But served his State in legislative hall 
Till strength allowed return to battle's call. 

And now a space, my gentle Muse, employ 
To sing the praise of one brave Georgia boy. ' 
James Hilliard, who wore private's uniform, 525 

Sore wounded fell in Spottsylvania's storm^ 
When Gordon's men had onward pushed their way 
To "Bloody Angle's" base on twelfth of May. 
Over him more than once the battle surged. 
In charge and counter-charge by heroes urged. 530 
When after night the conflict ended here 
And near four hundred yards toward the rear 
A new line joined our works on left and right 
Making the salient useless for new fight, 
Left there alone with neither friend nor foe, 535 

At first he knew not whither he should go. 
The noble lad, with in each hip a wound^ 
Found no one near to raise him from the ground. 
Though painful^ when he stirred, did each hurt 

prove. 
Himself he dragged, few inches at each move, 540 
And persevered four hours till, wish achieved^ 
He found his friends and by them was relieved. 
Now borne away on stretcher to the rear, 
A noble-looking horseman, riding near, 
Frorn litter-bearers all this story heard, 545 

His soul with admiration deeply stirred. 
Patting the cheek of that young beardless lad. 
With words of cheer he made his spirit glad; 



126 The Strife of Brothers. 

'*My boy, you are a soldier brave and true. 
For country's cause such gallant things to do,'* 550^ 
How throbbed his heart with pride and joy to see, 
The one who praised him thus was Robert Lee! 
After Cold Harbor's strong, death-dealing blow. 
That brought Grant's plan for taking Richmond 

low, 
Lee from his lines bade Breckinridge to move 555 
With men who to each task would faithful prove, 
Lynchburg to save from Hunter's vandal hand. 
With sword and torch then marching through the 

land. 
Next he detached his gallant second corps 
To add to Breckinridge some thousands more, 560 
All these, by stalwart Jubal Early led, 
To rescue the fair city quickly sped. 
But Hunter waited not th' avenging hand 
Lifted to strike with might his plund'ring band. 
For more than sixty miles was pressed the chase 565 
In Hunter's hasty flight and change of base. 
Then to the northward Early quickly turned 
With heroes whose proud hearts for great deeds 

burned. 
Barefoot though many were and none o'erfed 
They joyful marched where'er their chieftain led, 57a 
Their sight regaled by promise of the fields 
That prospect gave of future bounteous yields, 
And hearts made glad by glance from beauty's 

eyes ^ 

That greeted them with smiles of glad surprise, 
Recalling scenes of march two years before 575 

With "Stonewall" in this same fair Shenandoah. 
Shoes soon received, they all in better plight 
And beckoned on by smile of Hope so bright, 
O'er the Potomac Sigel's army swept 
And into Maryland straight onward kept, 580 

Lew Wallace on Monocacy's fair banks 
Had formed his line with strongly posted ranks. 
While Rickett's brave division, promptly sent 
From Grant's command, their stout assistance 

lent. 
Though they had marched full fourteen miles that 

day ; 585 

Early^s brave men prepared to force their way. 



TJic Strife of Brothers. 127. 

McClernand's horsemen fell on FedVal flank 
While King's and Nelson's guns from western 

bank 
Poured in their fire and Ramseur in their front 
Pushed up with men long tried in battle's brunt. 590 
Now in the dashing charge as Gordon led, 
His gallant steed by buUet wound fell dead. 
Like lightning flash was Gordon on his feet, 
With clarion voice cried "Forward!" and as fleet 
As startled deer the breaking Fed'rals fled, 595 

While with their chief the gray line onward sped. 
Nor did they halt when Evans wounded fell, 
Leading in farthest front his boys so well, 
And Georgia's Sixty-first was not delayed 
Nor in its onward sweep a moment stayed, 600 

When brave Van Valkenberg and John Lamar 
Died for the cause on foremost verge of war. 
In hot pursuit now Rhodes and Ramseur move, 
And ringing shouts the South's proud triumph 

prove. 
The North with bated breath looked anxious on 605 
As Early forward marched to Washington. 

And what of Grant? Did he his plans give o'er? 
And Lee's strong lines decide to try no more ? 
Of sterner stufif the Northern chief was made. 
When Hunter first had marched, as timely aid 610 
Grant sent bold Sheridan with troopers brave, 
While Lee sent Hampton, Gordonsville to save 
And all his railroad lines that northward led. 
Then rival horsemen to fierce conflict sped 
And at Trevilian Station battle waged, 615 

Where 'gainst great odds Wade Hampton now 

engaged, 
And here with bravest in fierce battle-tide, 
McAllister and Whiteford Russel died. 
At first was Hampton forced his ground to yield, 
While Sheridan, when he had won the field, 620 

Destruction's task with eager zeal began 
Thinking with ease to work his chieftain's plan. 
But Hampton reinforced, with strengthened line. 
Sees Fortune's smiles next day to him incline 
While Butler guards his left, Fitz Lee his right, 625 
Each firmly holding in the stubborn fight, 
And, when the second day's brave work is o'er, 



128 The Strife of Brothers. 

'Gainst twofold odds his flags triumphant soar 

And Sheridan that night is on the run 

With three-fourths of his ordered task undone. 630 

Grant at Cold Harbor saw all hope decline 

To fight the conflict out "upon this line" ; 

So leaving Lee on whose flag blazed the names 

Of triumphs new, he started for the James ; 

Then with strong force 'gainst Petersburg pressed 

hard; _ 635 

But right is proved Lee's faith in Beauregard, 
Who anxiously^ yet stoutly, still holds fast 
Against assaults from dawn till night that last ; 
At first with odds against him eight to one, 
Decreased each day, till fourth day's setting sun 640 
Sees Grant's great host at ev'ry point repelled' 
By lines of Petersburg so stoutly held. 
Commands that thus faced odds of eight to one 
Should wear Fame's wreath till Earth's last set- 

• ting sun — ■ 
Such deeds hath song or story rarely told 645 

In recent years, or in the times of old — 
Archer's militia, Bearing's horsemen brave 
And guns of Sturdivant whose banners wave 
On foremost line, which all the nerve employs 
Of Twenty-sixth Virginia's veteran boys, 650 

And Thirty-fourth and Forty-sixth as true 
And Georgia's Sixty-fourth, so prompt to do 
Whate'er their country bids, and Twenty-third 
Whose deeds the pride of South Carolina stirred ; 
All these led on by gallant Henry Wise 655 

To desp'rate task, that utmost valor tries. 
Odds were diminished first by Hagood's men. 
By Alfred Colquitt's next, by Clingman's then 
And Gracie by forced march brought timely aid. 
While Pickett, Field, Kershaw most certain made 660 
The holding of our line, till odds fourfold 
Recoiled before defense so firm and bold. 
While A. P. Hill now blocked the moves of Meade 
And rendered help wherever there was need. 
Wade Hampton's star again resplendent rose 665 
O'er Kautz' and Wilson's rout and scattered foes. 

As Grant prepares new onset yet to make. 
Tidings of Early's march the Northland shake. 



The Strife of Brothers. 129 

Causing him now aggression to forego 

And hasten troops to check bold Southern foe. 670 

How dark to Northern hearts was this dread hour 

And how they trembled at the Southron's power! 

Nor breathed quite free on Early's prompt retreat, 

When stronger force from Grant about to meet, 

And, oh I what dire alarm again they felt 675 

At sudden blow on Union forces dealt, 

When Crook o'er the Potomac fled amain 

And Southern troops on Northern soil again 

Through Maryland to Pennsylvania sped 

And filled each fearful soul with doubt and dread ! 680 

And glad on Southern view Hope's bright smile 

beams 
As the proud starry cross in triumph streams 
O'er Pennsylvania's and Virginia's soil, 
While Grant's strong legions in defeat recoil 
At the dread Crater's most disastrous fight, 685 

That smites with blasting stroke his boasted might ; 
W^hile down in Georgia Sherman, held at bay. 
Lacks for a time the strength to push his way 
And Wheeler keeps Hood's roads from raiders 

free 
And Forrest sweeps through western Tennessee. 690 




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tn 

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c 

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w 

< 

w 



The Strife of Brothers. 131 



BOOK VL 



Now O'er the South Invasion's Billows Roll. 

Valor and skill can not forever win 

'Gainst growing odds without and want within, 

And vict'ries e'en, at cost of means and men, 

That in no way can be supplied again, 

Must end at last in bitter, dire defeat, 5 

With naught from triumphs left but mem'ries 

sweet. 
So star of Southern hope from zenith high, 
Ere long was moving down the darkening sky. 
For, as the summer closed, Atlanta's fall 
Brought to our arms the direst blow of all 10 

And blighted dawning hope for equal peace, 
That would with justice make war's horrors cease. 
Next in the Shenandoah come sad defeats. 
Though ev'ry ill our army bravely meets, 
And hope, hke blazing meteor, gleams once more, 15 
When, ah ! so proudly Southern banners soar 
At Cedar Creek that bright October morn 
O'er. routed Fed'ral troops at early da^vn. 
Alas, for fatal halt so many hours, 
Till beaten foes could rally all their powers 20 

And gather their great odds in whelming might 
1 o chill new hope with sad disaster's blight ! 
But Early, whom misfortune could not daunt. 
Did yet at Sheridan his banners flaunt 
Next month on north of Cedar Creek two days, 25 
While late triumphant chief in camp delays. 
Nor sallies forth to strike another blow 
At his twice vanquished, yet still fearless foe. 
When eighteen sixty-four to end now came, 
Lee's gallant host of ever glorious name 30 

Still held Virginia stoutly in its clasp, , 
Nor from o'erwhelming ocids relaxed its grasp. 



132 The Strife of Brothers. 

Ah ! could Joe Johnston thus have held his own, 
Or forlorn hope with gallant Hood have shown 
Success the like of this defense so grand, 35 

Proud triumph might have crowned the Southern 

land. 
Yet blame for these grand chiefs there should not 

be; 
CjO'd to our cause gave but one Robert Lee. 

Atlanta's siege and all the stern array 
Of armies marshaled for the dreadful fray, 40 

When North and South in bitter conflict met 
And Georgia's soil with patriot blood was wet, 
Be now the theme of my advent'rous song: 
Assist, kind Muse, their valor to prolong. 
For full three years embattled hosts had fought, 45 
Complete success with toil and blood had sought. 
But fickle fortune did her smiles bestow 
On one brave host, then on its gallant foe. 
When gloomy winter days have passed away. 
And sweetly bloom the flowers of lovely May, 50 

From winter quarters all the soldiers come. 
Aroused by notes of bugle, fife and drum. 
''Union!" the sturdy Northman's battle cry; 
"State Rights !" the fiery Southron's bold reply. 
These rival shouts had often brought to light 55 

As gallant deeds as e'er were seen in fight. 
And now in deadly grapple once again 
Shall close these armies of heroic men. 
Under Joe Johnston's skillful guiding hand . 
Confed'rates hoped to firmly hold their land, 60 

To rival Chickamauga's glorious fame, 
And thus of Mission Ridge blot out the name 
That caused the Fed'ral heart to throb with pride. 
And hope for certain triumph to its side. 
Around fair Dalton form the hostile lines ; '^ 65 

Valor with hope and patriot zeal combines 
To stir each host to great and gallant deeds. 
Against Dug Gap his Fed'rals Gearv leads ; 
Reynolds and Grigsby force them back again, 
And the Confed'rate yell wakes hill and plain, 70 

Pive times repeated, as the ground they held, 

*The Georgia campaign began on the same day that Grant 
began his overland campaign May 5, 1864. 



The Strife of Brothers. 133 

And fierce assaults at Rocky Face repelled. 

At Mill Creek Bate and Stewart barred the way, 

Cantey was at Resaca, there to stay, 

Nor to McPherson's bold advance gave back, 75 

While Johnston hastily supplied his lack. 

With Hindman ready for the fiercest fray. 

And Cleburne's men who always won the day, 

And Walker who so bravely ever stood, 

All under orders of the gallant Hood. 80 

Around Resaca now the armies formed. 

And for two days the furious combat stormed. 

Thoug'h firmly here Joe Johnston held his ground. 

Another force brave Wheeler's horsemen found 

Moving to south and west, their lines to turn ; 85 

And, though the Southern soldiers' hearts all burn 

To try the issue on one well-fought field. 

Their leader deems it best this point to yield 

And make his move to Sherman's correspond. 

Near Cassville next his expectation fond 90 

To bring his foe to battle as he willed 

Joe Johnston thought about to be fulfilled. 

His orders set the soldiers' hearts aflame ; 

They greet the promised fight with loud acclaim ; 

For weary of the deadly skirmish line, 95 

To end the campaign now their souls incline. 

O lovely day! with nature's face so fair. 

While scent of clover-blossoms filled the air ; 

The dew-drops glistened on the grass-clad hills. 

And at their feet flowed gently murm'ring rills. 100 

Ah ! peaceful scene ! How sad to think ere night 

On manly forms should darkly fall death's blight ! 

O, never can my heart that day forget. 

When noble Tegare HilP^ his death-stroke met; 

One moment blooming in young manhood's 

pride, 105 

The next one dead, his sorrowing friends beside. 
Two comrades bore him to a humble cot; 
The Union marksmen saw, but harmed them not. 
Before the door they gently laid the dead, 
Then smoothed the curly locks about his head no 
And on his jacket pinned the hero's name, 
Hoping that gen'rous foes would see the same, 

*Son of Hon. Joshua Hill, of Madison, Ga. 



;I34 The Strife of Brothers. 

And to their friend a fitting burial give. 

And this they did ; ah ; det the story Hve ! 

The foemen placed a head-board at the mound, 115 

And on it carved the name which they had found. 

That day in skirmishing was wholly spent ; 

At night our chieftains to a council went. 

Councils of war, they say do never fight, 

And so this time it proved; for ere daylight 120 

Had come, we all were on our weary way, 

And crossed the Etowah that very day. 

From Dallas to the railroad next extend 

The long Confed'rate lines, where now we spend 

The time in fight and marches to and fro, 125 

Wherever we are called to meet the foe. 

No gen'ral battle on these lines occurred, 

Yet day and night the crash of arms was heard. 

The musket's rattle and the cannon's roar, 

And shouts of skirmishers, as evermore 130 

These wooded dales and rugged hills among 

Was song of shells and whistling minies sung. 

At salient points fierce combats often raged. 

But never at all points was battle waged. 

At New Hope Church Joe Hooker tried his hand, 135 

But was repelled by Stewart's gallant band. 

While cannon's roar and thunder mingled came 

With lightning's flash and musket's sheet of flame. 

At Pickett's Mill next Howard tried to pierce 

The valiant Southern line, but found too fierce 140 

The fire of Cleburne's firm and steady van, 

Kelly, Granbury, Bancum and Govan, 

And Lowrey's men who joined them in the fray. 

All fighting bravely, till they gained the day. 

At Dallas, Bate McPherson's men assailed, 145 

But to break through the Union lines he failed. 

Though braver conflict ne'er was waged than then 

By Tyler's, Lewis's and Finley's men. 

And now in digging, marching and in fight, 

From early dawn until the dewy night, 150 

Wrestled the struggling hosts from left to right. 

Decisive triumph neither side could win, 

And each new day saw strife anew begin. 

Pine Mountain witnessed fall of valiant Polk, 

Who, when the South's first call her sons awoke 155 



The, Strife of Brothers. 135 

To war, his armor buckled promptly on. 

Through dangers many he thus far had gone, 

And oft escaped unscathed; but now, alas! 

Death smote our brave, our loved Leonidas. 

Of the sad war how great had been the cost ! 160 

What matchless heroes had our -Squthland lost ! . ; 

First Albert Sidney Johnston, far the best 

Of all our gallant leaders of the West ; 

Ihen peerless Stonewall, bulwark of our host, 

Virginia's pride and 'all the Southland's boast; 165 

And knightly Stuart, whose bright gleaming blade 

Had oft a path through thronging foemen made. 

How did we mourn these mig^hty leaders dead. 

For whose dear lives so many prayers had plead ! 

And now another of the highest rank 170 

In list of chieftains one more fatal blank 

Had left ; and more we'd lost of high renown, 

Whose deeds in thrilling story have come down ; 

And countless heroes, of whom not a name 

Has been recorded on the scroll of fame, 175 

Whose death as sadly made fond loved ones 

mourn, 
And rendered many a happy home forlorn. 

Twin Kennesaw, from whose high peaks unfold 
Vistas as fair as one can oft behold, 
Next saw the armies round its sides and base, 180 
The battle's dreadful storm prepared to face. 
In front and on each flank through hill and dale 
strong lines of skirmishers their foes assail, 
While frequent roar of furious cannonade 
With din of small arms warlike concert made. 185 
Hood's men are charged bv Hooker and Schofleld, 
But Stevenson and Hindman do not yield, 
And charging now in turn they also fail 
Over their gallant foenien to prevail. 
^One morn, the twenty-seventh day of June, 190 

All nature's voices seemed to be in tune. 
As woodland songsters joined in sweetest lays 
Warbling so joyously their notes of praise, 
;Into this peaceful scene fell Discord came 
With fierce Bellona's all devouring flame. 195 

For Sherman's armies in one vast array 
Marshaled to try the issue of the day, 



136 The Strife of Brothers. 

And by one mighty effort put to rout 

The Southern Hnes so steady, bold and stout. 

Artill'ry shakes the ground with awful crash, 200 

And through the air the shells like meteors flash, 

While from the Union ranks huzzas are heard : 

But louder yeb was valor's cry that stirred 

Each Southern heart to most heroic deed 

And made it strong to follow duty's lead. 205 

Brave Logan, strongly helped by Blair and Dodge, 

Upon the mountain tried a force to lodge ; 

But Featherston their onset did repel, 

And seven regimental leaders fell. 

A furious charge on French's lines was made, 210 

But Cackrell's troops with deadly fusillade 

Drove their assailants shattered, bleeding back. 

And followed them with fire that did not slack. 

Through Walker's skirmishers, front, left and right 

ih' assaulting columns with resistless might, 215 

Like that with which the waves on breakers dash, 

t orce their quick way ; but then at once the clash 

Of ringing bayonets and swords is heard, 

Wielded by Georgia's gallant Sixty-third, 

And butts of muskets freely used and well, 220 

While from old Kennesaw the battle yell 

Swelled on the air to cheer the little band, 

That onward rushed to stay the foemen's hand. 

''On, Oglethorpes !"* McLaughlin loudly cried ; 

With heartv shouts the gallant boys replied , 225 

And seized again the rifle pits, and fought 

As vaHant men for home and country ought. 

But for few moments only could they stay 

The whelming mass that onward pushed its way. 

With heavy loss the Southerners retire ; 230 

But French from Kennesaw now opens fire 

*The writer's own company, from Augusta, Ga., attached 
to the Sixty-third Georgia, the largest company in the 
regiment, half of whom were on the skirmish line that day 
under two gallant lieutenants, Blanchard and3IcLaughlin. 
The captain, Wilberforce Daniel, and Orderly Sergeant 
(afterwards Lieutenant) Walter Clark, as brave officers as 
ever drew swords, were with the other half of the company 
on the line of battle. Nearly fifty per cent, of the half on 
the skirmish line that day were killed, wounded or cap- 
tured. A former captain, Louis Piquet, had lost his leg 
near New Hope church. 



The Strife of Brothers. 137 

Upon the onward moving lines of blue, 

While Allen' and his skirmishes so true, 

Upon the hill-crest rally and renew 

Their fire, which, aided now by French's guns, 235 

Turns back the onset of the Northland's sons. 

But through the rolling country south and west, 

Cleburne's and Cheatham's men, among the best 

Of all the Southern army, held their own, 

And thick the ground in front with slam had 

strown. 240 

The leaves caught fire, and flames were on the way 
To wounded foemen on the ground that lay. 
Brave Southern men with gentle pity stirred, 
With shout that was above the battle heard. 
Gave to the foe a truce their men to save.* 245 

How well such chivalry befits the brave ! 
The battle now was o'er, and Sherman's men 
To break Joe Johnston's lines had failed again; 
For bravelv led by Hardee, Uoring, Hood, 
Firm as a rock the Southern ''boys" had stood. 250 

A sad remembrance of that stirring day 
Comes to me now and checks my martial lay. 
No better man than gallant George Pournelle 
E'er for his native country fought and fell. 
Whether he died upon that bloody field, 255 

Or did in prison his brave spirit yi'eld. 
None ever knew. But long his faithful wife 
Hoped for his safe return, who was her life. 
Just four years later to the very day, 
Upon her dying couch that fond wife lay. 260 

Her wand'ring thoughts first turned unto her boy, 
Of her sad heart the only hope and joy. 
''Come, George, my son, and say your evening 
prayer, 

tJ. V.H.Allen, major of the Sixty-third Georgia, com- 
manding Walker's skirmishers on that day. 

*Lieutenant-Oolonel Wm. H. Martin, seeing that the 
Union soldiers did not understand, raised a white handker- 
chief upon a stick as a flag of truce and informed the Fed- 
eral soldiers that they could rescue their wounded. The 
Confederates leaped over their breastworks and assisted the 
Union soldiers in their work. A Federal officer, struck 
with this magnanimous deed, presented Colonel Martin 
with his own splendid brace of pistols. 



1.3:8 The Strife of Brothers. 

Kneel down, my darling, right beside me — there ! 
Say sweetly : 'Now I lay me down to sleep, 265 

Say on : 'I pray thee, Lord, my soul to keep.' " 
Then quick her thoughts unto another turned, 
And in her glazing eye a faint light burned. 
"A band of soldiers on the hill I see, 
Yes ! George, my love ! I'm coming now to thee !" 270 
These the last words that on this earth she spoke, 
And in our hearts, who heard, assurance woke, 
That she in heaven had surely met her love 
In the bright fields of joy and peace above. 

At Kennesaw had Sherman badly failed 275 

With loss four times that of the men assailed. 
But a new plan his fertile brain conceived. 
Which his great loss to great extent retrieved ; 
He held his front with force more strong than those 
Who firmly stood his onward march t' oppose ; 280 
Then sent another round the left to go, 
And thus outflank his brave and wary foe. 
Sherman had thought that, should his plain suc- 
ceed, 
Full many a pris'ner he would captive lead. 
And that our guns on Kennesaw's steep slope 285 
Would then be lost to us beyond all hope. 
But Johnston's men upon the mountain staid 
Till ev'ry gun was down its side conveyed, 
And skillfully maneuv'ring backward moved, 
And for their cunning foe too wary proved. 290 

Though Sherman tried to press on front and flank^ 
Johnston at leisure reached the river's bank, 
Then o'er the Chattahoochee safely crossed, 
With not a gun, not e'en a wagon lost. 
Wondrous retreat! In not a single fight 295 

Had Johnston's forces e'er been put to flight, 
But in each battle stoutly had repelled 
Superior numbers and their lines had held. 
And when some flanking movement caused retreat. 
With ready courage they the foe would meet, 300 

And steady front with blazing line of fire 
That forced unwilling halt; then slow retire. 
But 'twas retreat and not what they had thought 
Would happen, where and whensoe'er they fought. 
And yet Joe Johnston trusting, they were sure 305 
He soon would vict'rv for their arms secure. 



The Strife of Brothers. I39 

Thev were as ever ready for the fight, 
' Ancf still they felt their chief would manage rig:ht. 
Not so at Richmond : for there was a fear 
That the Gate City's certain fall was near. 310 

Another leader 'twas resolved to try, 
At once to set the skillful Johnston by, 
And in his place to put the dashing Hood, 
Who stoutly, firmly swore he never would 
One foot more yield without a manly fight 315 

To hold the land that was our own by right. 
About the merits of these chieftains we 
Unanimous in all things ne'er can be. 
But on this point must ev'ry man agree : 
Kach hero was a true and valiant knight, 320 

Who fought his very best for country's right. 

Atlanta's fall would open wide the gate. 
Through which his armies marching, strong and 

great, 
Sherman could lead, with devastating blight. 
To sweep the land and o'er it spread the night 325 
Of utter ruin, as he marked his path 
By light of burning homes and cut a swath 
Through ravaged fields and devastated lands, 
Whose helpless people, robbed by "bummer" 

bands. 
Might all be left to starve for aught he cared. 330 
This to prevent our crippled hero dared* 
To try the boldest methods, as he must, 
Or see Atlanta buried in the dust 
Of sad destruction, while her mournful fall 
Should bring dark ruin on the hopes of all. 335 

Desp'rate the task before our men that lay 
To keep the thronging hosts of foes at bay. 
Whom not our mountain strongholds had kept 

back. 
Would they now in the lower lands find lack 
Of means to force again their onward way? 340 

Ah ! could we now the stronger army stay ? 
That was the question Hood was forced to meet. 
Farther retreat, he thought, meant sure defeat ; 
So whether Sherman flanked to left or right, 

* Hood had been disabled in one arm at Gettysburg, and 
had lost a leg at Chickamauga. 



140 The Strife of Brothers. 

He was resolved to strike with all his might. 345 

At Peachtree Creek a heavy blow was dealt; 

Hardee and Stewart made their presence felt . 

In charging masses that at points broke through 

The hostile works ; but as the billows do, 

When up the beach they move with sudden rush, 350 

And ev'rything before them swiftly brush, 

Then refluent roll; th' assailants thus again 

By guns of Thomas forced with loss of men 

Recoil ; and ere the charge can be renewed. 

Or other needed measures be pursued, 355 

Pat Cleburne must be sent to brace the right. 

Where Wheeler waged a bold and desp'rate fight. 

The right was saved, and farther charge forbid. 

And dark'ning night the fierce combatants hid. 

Thus forcing peace until the dawn of day. 360 

Sherman was moving still in his old way. 

Hoping, that if in fight he could not rout 

The Southern soldiers, he could turn them out 

And seize his prize. But dauntless Hood was there, 

And bade his leaders once again prepare 365 

To hurl their columns with resistless might 

Against the Union flankers on his right. 

July the twenty-second was the day, 

That brought the rival armies to the fray. 

That fiercest proved of all the long campaign. 370 

Hardee and Wheeler stuck their left amain, 

While Cheatham charged and stoutly pressed the 

fi^ht, ^ 
And Smith's State troops toward the Union right. 
And Stewart's valiant men, so strong and bold. 
All bravely fought like gallant knights of old. 2)7S 
McPherson fell upon the Union side. 
And Walker's blood the soil of Georgia dyed,"^' 
Each one a hero and a patriot, too. 
Doing the very best than man can do. 
For What with all his soul he deemed the right. 380 
And now into the thickest of the fight 
Pat Cleburne led his own and Walker's men, 
Who made the echoing forests ring again 
With what the Yankees called the ''rebel yell" ; 

^General Wm. H. T. Walker, of Georgia. 



TJic Strife of Brothers. 141 

And louder that inspiring cry arose, 385 

As Cheatham charged ri^ht down upon his foes. 
Then Manigault with Irwin Walker true, 
Led their strong men against the lines of blue, 
And L. P. Thomas, from Stovall's command, 
With the stout foemen grappled hand to hand. 390 
Both these brigades broke through and captured 

guns. 
Driving from out their works the Northland's sons. 
The battle raged and many a man went down, 
But none more valiant than was John M. Brown ; 
Albert and Evan Howell bravely too 395 

Led to the fight their stalwart men so true. 
But Logan brought fresh masses to the field. 
And tried to force the Southern line to yield. 
Furious the fight, and men were falling fast; 
Against o'erwhelming force no strength could 

last ; 400 

Slowly at length the Southern line goes back. 
The Union men retake their works, but lack 
The needed strength to farther press the fight. 
Hardee still firmly held upon his right 
Part of the works assailed, and proudly bore 405 

Eight captured guns as trophies, while five more 
W^ere Cheatham's prize, whose valiant men delight 
To talk e'en now about their gallant fight. 
Each side claimed vict'ry on this well-fought day; 
But Sherman flanked no more toward that way. 410 
The next week over on the other side 
At Ezra church, the game of war was tried. 
And here again led on by Stephen Lee 
Was shown a valor one can seldom see. 
Time fails me all the gallant deeds to tell 415 

*Of Wheeler, Kelly, Jackson and Dibrell, 
Of Martin, Armstrong, Iverson and Ross, 
Who faltered not to count the gain or loss, 

^Lieutenant-General Joseph Wheeler commanded a mag- 
nificent corps of cavalry, the brigade and division com- 
manders of which are here named. During the deadlock 
around Atlanta they gained two magnificent victories over 
Sherman's cavalry defeating the expeditions of McOook 
and Stoneman with a loss to the enemy of nearly three 
thousand men. They also scored many other successes of 
les^note. 



142 The Strife of Brothers. 

But to their country gave its utmost dues ; 

Of Roddy, Av'ry, Ferguson and Crews, 420 

And Ashby, like Virginia kinsman, brave 

And Prather in the front where banners wave, 

Who, with their vahant men so strong and bold, 

As firm as any gallant knights of old. 

Oft showed what Southern boys would gladly do, 425 

Impelled by love of country strong and true. 

And equal praise is Hume's or Allen's meed, 

Or Anderson's or Grigsby's, who in need, 

With Harrison and Hannon were on hand. 

To meet and scatter ev'ry raiding band. 43a 

How many a vict'ry by these horsemen won 

Cheered the brave men who, toiling in the sun 

And dust and dirt, behind the trenches lay. 

Striving to keep their thronging foes at bay. 

How gladly would we mention all that led, 435 

And all who fought or for their country bled. 

The batt'ries too; without their timely aid 

No long defence could ever have been made. 

So numerous they, that we can only name 

Their chief in every corps, whose happy fame 440 

By leading such brave men was made secure; 

Melanchthon Smith's and Beckham's names en- - 

dure, 
And Hallpnquist and Williams well we know, 
And Robertson and Hamilton, not slow 
To meet each movement of their active foe ; 445 

And over all was Shoup^ whose timely aid 
Was always ready when some move was made. 
To him and Presstman much the army owed. 
And high esteem for them the chieftains showed. 
And oft good news from other quarters came, 450 
Where the dread 'Wizard of the Saddle's""^ name ^ 
Struck terror deep into the foemen's soul. 
While the fierce battle-cry did upward roll 
As his gray columns with resistless might 
Swept all before them in disastrous plight 455. 

And utter rout, when in confusion blent, 
Horsemen and footmen, guns and wagons went 
In headlong haste to find a safe retreat 
From gleaming blades they dared not wait to meet, 

^General N. B. Forrest. 



The Strife of Brothers. i,43- 

The while that Forrest kept his border free 460 

In Mississippi and in Tennessee. 

And from Virginia's proud, illustrious land, 

Where matchless Lee led matchless hero band 

Whose hearts 'mid greatest perils never quailed, 

Nor 'gainst most fearful odds had ever failed 465 

To keep the Southern banner floating high 

Under the Old Dominion's glorious sky, 

Came cheering news, as field on field was won 

By deeds than which no braver e'er were done, 

As Lee kept stubborn Grant so long at bay, 470 

And 'gainst most desp'rate efforts won the day, 

While northward a swift thunderbolt he launched, 

That, as it sped, his foemen's faces blanched 

With dreadful fear lest their own capital 

Were destined 'neath these sturdy blows to fall. 475 

Atlanta's brave defenders' hearts were stirred 

To emulate these deeds, of which they heard, 

And filled with high resolve they did their best, 

The vict'ry from persistent foes to wrest. 

In August sadly our good city fared ; 480 

Children, old men and gentle women shared 

The dangers of the soldiers in the front. 

Who of long weary battles bore the brunt. 

For Sherman's shells were falling thick and fast 

With iron hail, that for a month did last. 485 

'Twas very sad, yet passing strange to see 

How from the hail of shells secur^ to be 

Their little forts they built beneath the ground. 

And oft' both night and day a refuge found. 

Yet not one word of yielding e'er was heard 490 

From those brave hearts by love of country stirred. 

At last our hard-beleagured city fell. 

But not by storming hosts, nor rain of shell; 

Lines of supply were cut on ev'ry hand, 

And nothing more was left to Hood's brave band 495 

Than safe retreat. Though shattered^ beaten not, 

He marched to try on other fields his lot. 

Of the destruction that befell the town, 

And how in utter ruin it went down, 

Alas ! alas ! how dreadful 'tis to tell ! 500 

We all remember the sad stor3^well. 

First, by the Northern Chieftain's stern detree, 



144 ^'^^ Strife of Brothers. 

Its people from their homes were forced to flee ; 

Then next, the torch was ruthlessly applied, 

And, while the exiles' hopes in sorrow died 505 

As the red conflagration mounted high, 

There floated upward to the glowing sky 

Gay martial strains, that mocked at brothers' woes 

And showed how hardened were the hearts of 

those 
Who could forget, how once for Freedom's land 510 
At Fort McHenry stood a hero band 
Whose triumph to a nation's song gave birth, 
Full of sweet promise to th' oppressed of earth, 
Breathing a holy prayer for all who stand 
Between war's terrors and their native land. 515 

A short while northward Hood with his brave men 
Had by flank march drawn Sherman back again. 
And on one autumn morn hope brightly beamed, 
When French's gallant banners proudly streamed 520 
O'er Allatoona's field so nearly won. 
But, ere his well-planned work is fully done, 
French must retire before th' approaching host, 
That brings relief to nearly vanquished post. 
Once more in hope the falling cause to save. 
In Tennessee the blue cross banners wave. 525 

But tell me not of Franklin's bloody day, 
Where Cleburne died, while thickly round him lay 
The valiant men whom he so oft had led. 
Where patriots for home and country bled. 
And with this gallant "Stonewall of the West" 530 
So many of the bravest and the best 
Of the great leaders of that noble host 
Died for the land their spirits cherished most. 
No more Granbury's* gleaming blade shall flash. 
Nor Adams"*" 'gainst the foeman's breastworks 

dash, 535 

Nor Gist^ ride down his line so firm and strong, 

"-•-Brigadier-General Hiram B. Granbury, leader of the 
famous Texas brigade. 

tBrigadier-General John Adams, of Tennessee, who fell 
mortally wounded, as he rode his horse across the enemy's 
works. 

iBrigadier-General States Rights Gist, of South Carolina, 
who died at the head of his advancing men, just after riding 
down his line and cheering them on. 



The Strife of Brothers. 145 

IN'or Strahl§ cheer on the men he led so long, 

>Tor Carter 1 1 strive from hostile grasp to free 

His well-beloved, his noble Tennessee. 

Now from my sight hide Nashville's fatal field, _540 

Where broken were the Southland's spear and 

shield. . 

Army of Tennessee ! though smitten sore, 
In triumph did thy banners wave once more 
For one short brilliant hour at Bentonville, 
And once again did hope thy bosom thrill. 545 

But ere the well-earned victory was scored, 
Fresh troops the foemen's wav'ring lines restored. 
Then tidings sad from Lee's brave army came, 
How Pickett and his men of glorious fame 
At Five Forks failed^ though gallant was their 

fight, 550 

Where W. H. F. Lee for country's right, 
A noble son of noble father, led 
Bold horsemen, true iS e'er for vict'ry bled. 
And sad the tidings ^re of A. P. Hill, 
Whose spirit took ii aght 'mid war-cry's thrill, 555 
And whose last ga? . the starry cross beholds. 
As stream o'er batt. -line its waving folds. 
Then soon, ah ! soo , there came the mournful fall, 
And Appomattox was the end of all ! ^ 
Our fondest hope, went down in dark'ning 

shades, 560 

Illumed an instant by the flashing blades 
Of Gordon,''^ Evans and of J^itzhugh Lee, 
Leading the headlong charge so grand to see, 
Which graced the parting of that Spartan band 
Who fought with Robert Lee for Dixie's land. 565 
The cause so dear to Southern hearts was lost ! 
And yet, though terrible had been the cost, 
The South's brave sens had won undying fame, 
And crowned with glory the Confederate name. 

§ Brigadier-General Of 10 French Strahl, of Tennessee, who 
was shot down inside th 3 enemy's outer works and close to 
their last line. 

II Brigadier-General John Carter, of Tennessee, who fell 
mortally wounded near the enemy's works. 

*John B. Gordon and Olemant A. Evans, of Georgia, and 
IFitzhugh Lee, of Virginia. 




GI.ORIA ViCTlS. 

Baltimore Monument — To the Confederate Soldiers and Sailor®; 

of Maryland. 



The Strife of Brothers. 147 



BOOK VII. 



The Battle-Storms are Hushed, the Banner^s Furled* 

When battle-storms were hushed and banners 

furled 
And light of peace beamed o'er the western world, 
The fates of war, less stern than they then seemed, 
Nor wholly cruel, as we one time deemed. 
Bade for the Union palms of victory wave 5; 

And to the vanquished wreaths of glory gave. 
When marched down Pennsylvania avenue 
Sherman's and Grant's arrays in proud review, 
No juster or more long-enduring pride 
Could in their glad, exultant hearts abide, la 

Than that, which failed not comfort sweet to bring 
To all Confederate breasts and drew the sting 
From sad defeat, as homeward now they came 
With all things lost, except an honored name. 
They knew their record all the world would see 15, 
And prouder felt to share defeat with Lee, 
Than victor's wreath with noblest chief of all 
That answered to the haughty North's roll-call. 
So felt they then ; yet more, so feel they now, 
When Fame with glory crowns the South's fair 

brow. 20 

How does each Southern heart with rapture thrill 
And what emotions each proud bosom fill. 
As tale of triumphs o'er great odds we read 
And of them all can find nO' prouder deed, 
Than when with right arm Lee held back Grant's 

clasp 2$ 

That Petersburg and Richmond sought to grasp. 
While with his left he northward launched a blow 
That struck dismay into his mighty foe, 
And thus for months held proud Virginia's land 
'Gainst thronging hosts that swarmed on ev'ry 

hand. 3^ 



148 ^/?<? Strife of Brothers. 

For his superb defense 'gainst odds so vast 
Green on Lee's brow i^ame's wreath shall ever 

last, 
And to each marshaled host since time began 
The proud South says : ''Now match him, if you 

can !" 
When home their footsteps our sad soldiers 
^ turned, ... 35 

This thought, we say, within their bosoms burned : 
*'A11 has been lost except an honored name." 
No shouting throngs now cheered them as they 

came; 
Yet soon they found, they were not quite bereft 
Of ev'ry good^ but that the best was left. 40 

Love with bright smiles and fond encircling arms 
Banished from saddened hearts all dire alarms. 
And from the ragged reb dispelled were sighs 
As love and pride beamed forth from those sweet 

eyes. 
That saw in him a hero true and grand ' 45 

V/ho'd done great deeds for their dear native land. 

There is one soldier who will ne'er forget 
The thrilling joy that lingers with him yet; 
How forth to greet him came his lovely wife, 
Sweetheart of youth and crown of manhood's life. 50 
E'en ere her arms so fair round him were thrown. 
From his glad heart had mournful sorrows fiown. 
And trouble fled and leaped his soul for joy 
When led by her to crib where lay their boy, 
Who just then waking opened his blue eyes, 55 

In which was puzzled look of strange surprise, 
And with sweet baby lips exclaimed 'Tapa !" 
How did he know? What is the secret? Ah! 
From that so long to be remembered day. 
When to Joe Johnston's host he went away, 60 

The soldier's wife talked to her baby boy 
Of him who was her true heart's greatest joy, 
And so oft showed the picture of his sire. 
That expectation strong and fond desire 
To see that father in the infant woke, 65 

And from such teaching the boy knew and spoke. 
Through perils many had the father passed 
In battles and in prison, till at last 
iNear three months after Appomattox day 



The Strife of Brothers. 149 

From prison to sweet home he found his way. 70 

And sorely had that noble wife been tried, 

Who long weeks feared, lest her beloved had died 

In skirmish that had ushered in the fight 

At Kennesaw, where Sherman felt the might 

Of brave Joe Johnston's valiant Southern host 75 

And of his battles suffered here the most. 

When Walker's skirmishers essayed to stay 

The whelming mass, that onward pushed its way. 

The charging lines broke through and captured 

men 
Whom, though repulsed, they carried back again. 80 
'Mongst those who to Camp Douglas were con- 
veyed 
Her husband was, and two months there he staid, 
Ere she had learned that he was living yet. 
Those anxious weeks she never could forget, 
Nor he the dreary months of prison life 85 

With dangers oft and hardships ever rife 
For those who, faithful to the Southern Cross, 
Of all things willing were to bear the loss, 
To all the foe's enticements would not bend 
And to their cause were loyal to the end. 90 

To him was given also welcome sweet 
From parents of them both, rejoiced to greet 
The dear one who had been so long from home. 
Safe coming back at last, no more to roam. 
O'er the wife's parents sorrow's waves had rolled 95 
In loss of son so noble and so bold, 
Young Captain Henry Osborne, whose sad death 
Brought grief that lasted till their latest breath. 
Mixed joy and sadness in that mother's face 
Gave to her greeting sweetest charm and grace : 100 
"We've lost so much, but, thank God ! have you 

yet, 
And blessings left us we will not forget."* 

But many a soldier went where once stood home 
And found that there war's chilling blight had 

come. 
His dwelling lay in ashes on the ground 105 

And of farm buildings not a trace was found 

* As near her exact words as can be put into verse. See 
Book Fourth, lines 97-108 ; also lines 195-210. 



i^o The Strife of Brothers. 

Save blackened ruins ; desolation vast, 
With Eden that he'd left in sad contrast ! 
In spite of struggle brave, a scalding tear 
Stained the bronzed cheek that ne'er had blanched 

with fear, no 

And deep convulsive sobs shook that strong frame 
That had the war-storm dared in country's name. 
While thus despair was seizing on his heart, 
From reveries sad he woke with sudden start. 
For from a little hut on wooded hill 115 

One who'd been watching long and watched there 

stiU 
With many anxious fears and weary sighs, 
In spite of his changed looks and ragged guise, 
Said, as she saw him : "Surely, that is he !" 
And running with fast beating heart to see, 120 

With full assurance, as she nearer came, 
In glad, yet trembling accents, spoke his name. 
Turning, he saw the love-light in her eye 
And clasped her to his breast with joyous cry. 
The children, too, who'd followed mother fast 125 
To see if he had really come at last 
For whom they all had watched and waited long, 
With joys unclouded that to youth belong, 
And hearts from cares for future wholly free, 
Shouted: "Dear father !" in their childish glee. 130 
Then fond caresses and brave words of cheer 
Dried on his cheek the unavailing tear. 
With new-born hope aroused his valiant soul 
And made his sorrow-laden spirit whole. 
Transformed he was and ready to begin ^ 135 

The struggle that would fortune some day win. 
And now was born the resolution bold. 
That courage gave to face woes yet untold 
And in the forum bravely wage the fight. 
That in the field he'd lost, for Southern right. 140 

The story of Miles Thornton well hath stirred 
The souls of all who e'er the tale have heard. 
In Gordon's brilliant charge at Cedar Creek 
He, always ready danger's post to seek, 
Just at the turn in fortunes of the day, I45 

When Early's men were forced to move away, 
In his right leg received a dreadful wound 
Which brought him badly mangled to the ground. 



The Strife of Brothers. 151 

But this young corporal of valiant heart 

With two inverted guns now made a start 150" 

'To hobble from the field ; but second shot 

His right arm shattered and the dreaded lot 

Of wounded captive left him with his foes; 

To glorious morn how sad at eve the close ! 

Thence to West building borne in Baltimore 155 

With both limbs gone, what could he then do 

more? 
Surely he gave up now in blank despair? 
Not so; for a true hero's soul was there. 
A nurse in hospital at his request 

A piece of poplar brought and now, as best, 160 

Propped up in bed, he could, with pocketknife 
In his left hand he worked as for dear life, 
And persevering shaped at last a limb, 
Which, he always declared, just suited him. 
In sixty days, with heart 'gainst fate so stout, 165 
To help new wounded friends he moved about. 
W^hen peace, such as it was, at last had come, 
A willing heart for work he showed at home 
And won his way to that for which he tried 
And with proud honors gained he lived and died. 170 

'Mid trials each true Southern soldier's heart 
Aided him thus to act a manly part. 
In darkest hours an equal courage showed 
Brave Southern women, God's rich gift, bestowed 
'On Southern manhood, if in war or peace, 175* 

'Mid storm-cloud's rage or in the sweet surcease 
That comes to those who life's hard battles win 
O'er foes without or doubts and fears within. 
'The heroines of Dixie fame had won 
Through all the years while war's sad course was 

run 180 

And children yet unborn will stories learn. 
At whose recital their young hearts will burn. 
Privation all had borne, some, most severe, 
E'en dreadful want, all, anxious fear 
Tor loved ones at the front; yet their brave 

hearts 185 

Had helped them ever to act well their parts. 
E'en in fierce sieges bore they long and well, 
Ivike heroes true, the fiery rain of shell, 
And sometimes patriot ardor made them share 



152 The Strife of Brothers. 

Perils that only men are wont to dare.* IQO 

When Forrest pressed the chase for band of 

Streight 
With purpose stern as the decrees of Fate, 
How bravely that young Alabama girl 
Who faced the hissing minies' deadly swirl, 
Led Forrest and his horsemen to the ford 195, 

O'er which in swift pursuit those heroes poured ! 
And while we give this daring deed to Fame, 
We must remember Emma Sanson's name. 
When Early's valiant men first met defeat 
And through sad Winchester made their retreat, 20O' 
Gordon's brave-hearted wife 'mid shot and shell 
With words heroic cheered the soldiers well. 
The widow of Hugh Eee for just such deed 
Deserves on honor's roll the self-same meed; 
And poet's lays should equal praises yield 205; 

To Mary Bradford on the fatal field, 
Where that to Southern arms disastrous day 
Made long remembered Nashville's blood}^ fray. 
'Twas Mississippi's daughter true and brave, 
That to devouring flames her rich crop gave 210 

And thus did poverty with free heart choose. 
Rather than foes of South its wealth should use. 
O that we knew the patriot lady's name, 
That we might write it on the roll of Fame ! 
Upon the battle-field a soldier lay 215 

Third evening after Winchester's sad day, 
Young Randolph Ridgley, oft in battle tried — 
None braver e'er for country fought or died — 
From the fair city gentle women came 
On mercy bent, in tender pity's name. 22O' 

Miss Tillie Russell, moved by noble love. 
As sweet and pure as that of saints above, 
With but one purpose to inspire her heart. 
In helping wounded to perform her part, 
Happened to come where that young soldier lay 22^ 

_ * All the occurrences narrated in this poem, from the first 
line of the first book to the last line of the seventh book, 
are real events, not fiction, and the author appeals without 
hesitation for the truth of his statements concerning battles 
and campaigns to the ''Official Eecords," published by the 
United States government. See also his "Story of the Con- 
federate States,' ' published by the B. F. Johnson Publishing. 
Company, of Eichmond, Va. J. T. Deery, 



The Strife of Brothers. 153, 

And heard a gentle-hearted surgeon say : 

''He has not slept by either day or night, 

Since here he fell in thickest of the fight; 

And without sleep this gallant man must die. 

He can not be removed and here must lie." 230 

With no thought but to help^, she there sat down, 

Regardless if her friends should smile or frown, 

And gently on her arm she laid his head. 

Though night soon o'er the field its mantle spread. 

Her charge she guarded with no thought of fear 235, 

And soon a gentle breathing she could hear. 

Knowing that now the wounded soldier slept, 

Her faithful vigil all the night she kept. 

The Angels of the Lord encamped around, 

And watched with tender love the holy ground, 240^ 

Where that true woman sat with sleepless eyes 

Trusting with faith protection of the skies. 

To that fair lady's heart with pity rife 

Was due the sleep that saved the soldier's life. 

A stranger he, but wore the Southern gray 245; 

And for her care that fact was ample pay. 

Friends from that time they were, but nothing 

more ; 
Yet such an act, e'en when earth life is o'er, ~ 
Will be remembered aye beyond the skies, 
Where purest love abides and never dies. 250 

Our women, thus in days of war so true, 
In darkest Hours that followed faithful, too, 
With word of cheer, brave heart and ready hand 
Gave mighty help to save their stricken land. 
Disasters served to make them braver still 255, 

And stronger ev'ry duty to fulfill 
And thus t' inspire the men with courage grand 
To firmly stand by home and native land 
And, while they kept their oaths, to yet hold fast. 
Till principles of fathers win at last. 260- 

'Twas the first Christmas-tide since banners 
furled * 
Had promised peace throughout our western 

world, 
When foul assault was made on lovely home, 

*The thrilling incident here told occurred on the evening 
of December 27, 1865, eight months after the end of the war- 



J 54 ^^^ Strife of Brothers. 

That charming sat 'neath Georgia sky's blue 

dome. 
-Close by Augusta negro troops were camped,"?" 265 
By deeds of infamy already stamped, 
Ey their own color feared more than by whites, 
Who even then were prompt to guard their rights. 
Three of the gang, who on that mornmg came 
With airs impertinent, found youngster game, 270 
Whose leveled pistol frightened them away; 
But coming back toward the close of day. 
One shot into the yard and quickly paid 
With life the forfeit for attack thus made. 
A little party had assembled there; 275 

The mother, her three sons, two daughters fair 
And two young girls for pleasant visit come — * 
Of Christmas joys e'en then there still were some — 
And with the lady's sons were two young men, 
All bent on merry evening there and then. 280 

The interruption sad made all now fear 
Lest dreadful danger swiftly would appear. 
One visiting young man and second son 
Quick to the arsenal were told to run 
And for white soldiers ask, the home to guard. 285 
Cut off by negro scouts and pressed so hard. 
That with their lives they barely got away. 
These two were chased till nearly break of day. 
To that home meanwhile forty negroes came 
Breathing out threats of slaughter and of flame. 290 
The ladies to the attic all were sent. 
While utmost energy the young men bent 
The single stairway stoutly to defend. 
Till vict'ry or their death the fight should end. 
Their arms were not the best, but they would do 29.S 
For lads in battles tried, whose aim was true. 
Through rooms below the murd'rous outlaws roam, 
Destruction dealing to that lovely home. 
With oaths and vilest threats they fill the air. 
As all to charge the stairway now prepare. 300 

Two Freemans and Charles Martin at the top 
Are ready with true aim their way to stop, 

+ At the arsenal in Summerville, on the Sand Hills, about 
■three mills from the city. 

* The Freeman home was between one and two miles from 
the arsenal and about three miles from Augusta. 



The Strife of Brothers. 155 

While near Miss Lizzie Freeman takes her stand 
Having a loaded pistol in her hand. 
Bearing a torch the negro leader came; 305 

But him swift volley slew and quenched the flame. 
'Mid darkness dense his routed foU'wers fled, 
Leaving behind their wounded and their dead. 
Their flight made swifter by the rebel yell 
Which the brave trio rendered loud and well. 310 

With fresh arrivals charging and repelled 
They now by fear from new assault were held ; 
But froin without with fire through slanting roof 
They searched the attic, not 'gainst bullets proof. 
Then little Annie Martin knelt and prayed 315 

With childish faith that God would send them aid. 
She heeded not a ball that grazed her head, 
^ut to the Throne of Grace for help still plead. 
Now to the housetop thwarted negroes climb, 
Thinking to thus break through in speedy time. 320 
Then the besieged, though purpose firm had all 
Rather to die than into such hands fall. 
Thought in their hearts: "Is hope of rescue past? 
How long, O Lord, can our defense thus last?" 
Just as it seemed that all was lost, help came, 325 
Barely in time to save from death or shame. 
White troops with Fed'ral officer appeared 
And with kind words the brave defenders cheered. 
"Are all vet safe ?" in anxious tones he cried. 
"Yes!" was the answer. "Thank God!" he re- 
plied 330 
And bade them all come down. But still they 

doubt 
Whether new danger lurks for them without. 
"That you are friends how can we certain be?" 
"On word of Colonel Ruth. Trust now to me."* 



* The inmates of the Freeman home on that memorable 
27th of December, 1865,were Mrs- E. J. Freeman, a widow ; her 
sons William, nineteen years old, Henry, eighteen years 
old, and Matthew, fifteen years old; her two daughters, 
Elizabeth, twenty years old, and Mary, thirteen years old ; 
two visiting young gentlemen, Charles Martin, twenty-five 
years old, and Milton Park ; and two young girls from the 
city, Mary Wilson, thirteen years old, and Annie Martin, 
twelve years old. Matthew Freeman was the lad, who, with 
a leveled pistol, ordered out of the yard that morning three 
insolent negro soldiers, who had pointed their guns at his 
mother, threatening to shoot her for requesting them not to 



156 The Strife of Brothers. 

Then they came down and he their story heard 335 

And with unstinted praise their spirits stirred, 

Vowing that 'neath the stars or shining sun 

No more heroic deeds had e'er been done. 

Soon all the negro troops from Georgia went^ 

At strong request to Grant through Gordon sent. 340- 

But soon there came dark days that, like a pall, 
Seemed to presage sweet Freedom's final fall, 
Days that taxed all the Southland's mighty will 
For rights and liberty to struggle still. 
Then Southern women showed their courage true 345, 
And strongl}^ helped the men to dare and do. 
Ah ! ne'er for right was stronger battle waged 
Than that which Dixie's true hearts then engaged, 
When Hatred and fell Discord ruled the hour 
And wild fanatics held the reins of power 350 

And in the South inaugurated hell; 
Whose domination foul, remembered well, 
Still makes their names abhorred through all the 

land 
That once was cursed by their polluted band. 
'Twas when the South refused tO' buy relief 355, 

By fixing stigma on each valiant chief. 
Whom she had called to lead her in the fight 
For what she deemed to be her sacred right. 
That men in power ten sovereign States o'erthrew. 
Giving as reason what they knew untrue,* 360^ 

And then made citizens by law of might, 
Against all principles of sense or right — 
Of ev'ry man belonging to a race 
That never in the past, nor then, could grace 
Th' exalted post thus unto them assigned. 365 

With such constituents just to their mind 
And with elections held through three whole days 
To make secure their dark and devious ways. 
By being certain that their friends in black 
For early votes and often would not lack, 370 

drink out of the well-bucket. Henry Freeman and Milton' 
Park were the two who were sent out to summon aid. The 
rest passed through that night of horrors at the Freeman 
home. 

* See the history of "Reconstruction." in Derry's "Story 
of the Confederate States," published by B. F. Johnson. 
Publishing Company, Richmond, Va. 



The Sti'ife of Brothers. 157 

They made State governments that did their will 

And ready stood their purpose to fulfill, 

Their ignorant dupes deserved nor praise nor 

blame ; 
To them, if good or bad, 'twas all the same — 
Whate'er the carpetbaggers bade them do, 375 

They stupidly obeyed. That this is true, 
All we who lived in those dark days do know. 
Then robber taxes struck a heavy blow 
To men with fortunes wrecked by war's sad fate, 
As was the case in ev'ry prostrate State. 380 

Not satisfied with what they'^d done to States 
Against the South they planned still darker fates 
By bill iniquitous, styled "Civil Rights," 
To force equality 'twixt blacks and whites. 
This with test oaths and confiscation laws 385 

Made men and women mourn for their lost cause. 
Four years of war had power not half so great 
'Twixt North and South to stir up bitter hate. 
The Souths through all, true to herself remained, 
For liberty the struggle still maintained, 390 

Obeyed the laws, howe'er unjust they were, 
But for the birthright that belonged to her 
In courts and congress fought unto the end 
And to the tyrants' mandates would not bend. 
How bravely Charles J. Jenkins held his ground 395 
For rights of Georgia ! No usurper found 
The ''seal executive," which he preserved 
Till one was chosen, who its care deserved; 
And voice of Georgia's Hill rang through the 

land. 
As he at tyrants shook defiant hand. 400 

Augustus Garland plead for Southern right, 
Till in the Court Supreme he won his fight. 
For South oppressed brave John B. Gordon stood, 
While for good will he did whate'er he could. 
White-souled Wade Hampton worked with might 

and main 4^5 

For justice and fraternity again. 
Friends in the North the South found true and 

tried 
And taking courage tyrants' power defied. 
Then many a man who'd fought us in the field 
Encouraged us to stand and never yield, * 410 



158 The Strife of Brothers. 

A union they had helped on force to build 

By cruel war and blood of brothers spilled; 

But still they longed for union of our sires 

And altars bright with patriotic fires. 

They saw true union of the fathers dead, 415 

But hoped that love might bid her lift her head 

And from her grave come forth to live again, 

Shedding the holy light o'er hill and plain, 

That once so gloriously and gladly shone 

O'er land that ought to be sweet Freedom's own. 420 

The arms of peace with patriot zeal they don 

And sword of truth with courage buckle on. 

The shield of faith in God and right they bore 

And held it the maltreated South before. 

Ah ! will the South forget the noble men 425 

Who, baffled oft, renewed the fight again 

And the brave war of ballots still maintained. 

Till they for right the glorious day had gained? 

At length the mighty North, at heart aye kind, 

Knew fear and prejudice had made her blind, 430 

Saw what oppressors she had raised to power 

And to our rescue came in needful hour. 

In east, in west, in center ballots showered 

At last the foes of Liberty o'erpowered, 

And brothers' shouts in Massachusetts heard * 435 

With rising hope the joyful Southland stirred. 

Then Love began to claim once more his own 

And Hate dismayed leapt from his tottering 

throne. 
May North and South, each chastened "'' in her 

turn. 
From past a lesson of forbearance learn, 440 

And wage through courts and ballots all their 

fights 
For Fed'ral government or for State rights. 
Days of fraternal strife, thank God, are past ! 
Ne'er to return, we trust; nor let there last 

* In the congressional elections of 1874 even Massachu- 
setts gave seven thousand majority to the Democrats, who 
favored the cause of the South, 

t The final defeat and humiliation of the South in the Civil 
War was hardly more than an offset to the many humiliating 
defeats of the Northern armies. 



The Strife of Brothers. I59^ 

Heart-burning thoughts of those embittered 

years,* 44S 

Gloomy with force, oppression, wrong and tears, 
When the mailed hand of unrelenting Hate 
Was raised to crush each prostrate. Southern State, 
Till the great Court Supreme in might arose 
And checked the haughty power of Freedom's 

foes, . 450 

While Northern 'ballots to our rescue came 
And from Columbia's shield effaced the shame 
Of sov'reign States by sister States oppressed, 
And gave from tyranny a grateful rest. 
But in our nation's heart let there remam 455, 

Remembrance of each deed without a stain. 
Whether of Northern or of Southern son, 
On field by Fed'ral or Confed'rate v^on. 
States long estranged as one grew more to be. 
When the whole Nation was rejoiced to see 460 

Our loved Confed'rate chieftains, Fitzhugh Lee, 
Matt Butler and Joe Wheeler in command 
Of marshaled hosts of reunited land. 
The Southern cross, 'neath which our soldiers true 
Did oft such mighty acts of valor do, 465 

Will aye be dear to ev'ry Southern heart. 
Nor with its glorious mem'ries would we part 
For all that earth can give! Yet true are we 
To that old flag which floated proud and free, 
When borne by Washington and Harry Lee. 470 ■ 

If any dare deny the South this meed, 
We point to Bagley's death and Hobson's deed ; 
To Victor Blue who found Cervera's fleet 
And helped prepare the way for Spain's defeat; 
To Wheeler on the heights of San Juan, 475 

And brave Hugh Berkely,"^ who fresh honors won. 
Adding new glory to his gallant sire 
And uncles three, who, 'mid the hottest fire 
Of Gettysburg fell graced with noble wounds. 
With whose proud record Fame's loud trump 

resounds; 480- 

To Jenkins of the old Palmetto State, 

*The years of reconstruction. 

t A gallant young Virginian. Bagley was of North Caro- 
lina, Hobson of Alabama, and Blue of South Carolina. 



i6o The Strife of Brothers. 

So prompt his father's deeds to emulate; 

To Winship,'' who in fight at Malabon 

Proved that he was a true Confed'rate's son ; 

To Forts'on/ who, 'mid soul-inspiring cheers, 485 

Fell leading on his Western volunteers ; 

And with those heroes, Smith,- of Tennessee, 

Who, in that distant land across the sea. 

So freely offered for the Stripes and Stars 

The life oft periled for the Stars and Bars. 490 

Henceforth may peace and love our States unite 

And may no note of discord mar the might 

Of our republic, giant of the West, 

Of all the lands the noblest and the best. 

Vicksburg, heroic city, true and brave ; 495 

Charleston, the dauntless^ near Atlantic's wave; 

New Orleans and Mobile with hearts sO' true 

And Chattanooga famed for battles two ; 

Nashville, who heard the volleyed thunders roar. 

And Winchester, who saw alternate soar 500 

The flags of South and North, and brave old town 

Of Fredericksburg that felt War's dark'ning 

frown ; 
Atlanta and Columbia, swept by fire 
That spread through all their bounds destruction 

dire; 
Richmond and Petersburg, of noble fame, 505 

Where many a hero won a deathless name ; 
All centers once of sad fraternal strife, 
From out War's ruins rising to new life, 
W^ith strength and beauty greater than of yore, 
Have done their utmost to unite once more 510 

In loving bonds the States of South and North, 
And from their portals fair have issued forth 
Those who, as blessed messengers of peace, 
Have helped to make the wrath of brothers cease. 

t A naval officer, born in Macon, Ga., and son of a Con- 
federate captain. 

t A young Georgian of a well-known Confederate family. 

X Colonel Smith of the First Tennessee regiment, who 
died in the Philippines. 



u 21 m 



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